Q&A: Mixed Society
Mixed Society
Question
Hello and blessings, Rabbi Michi,
I would like to ask how the rabbi views relationships between the sexes in a mixed society. I mean specifically in schools at an age before one has “reached the appropriate stage,” that is, not for the purpose of marriage, but simply friendship, with all that that implies?
Thank you in advance,
Answer
It’s hard to elaborate here. Any situation that may lead to a transgression (in thought or in action) is undesirable. However, when it is part of the normal way of the world, one can be lenient.
Living in a mixed society is the normal way of the world, and that seems reasonable to me. A friendship between a boy and a girl not for the purpose of marriage is hard to reject categorically, but it’s not so desirable.
Discussion on Answer
Yes, it may, and therefore it is undesirable.
But it cannot be forbidden as a matter of Jewish law when there is no actual prohibition. When they come to an actual transgression, that will be prohibited. Before that, it is only a concern.
Friendship is not a situation that may lead to a transgression. Where is the line drawn?