Q&A: Matchmaking
Matchmaking
Question
Happy holidays.
I’m dating someone, and the connection between us is really good, etc. But on the religious side there are a few things that bother me. (She doesn’t dress very modestly, wants to go with a partial head covering, and “doesn’t rule out wearing pants in the future.”) I don’t think that in her mind this is something essential; it’s mainly external. But still, it reflects a certain spirit that bothers me. I wanted to ask the Rabbi: how much significance and weight do these things carry for someone who wants to build a quality Torah home? (After all, these aren’t exactly pure halakhic issues, but they do have a certain religious significance.)
I know you tend to avoid questions of this kind and say that I’m not worthy, etc., and even so, more than once I’ve seen sensible and wise things from you when answering questions like these.
Thank you
Answer
Let me start by saying that I think a good connection is very important. As for the religious matters you mentioned, it is definitely worthwhile to clarify them thoroughly between yourselves. If she is also prepared to violate Jewish law, that is problematic. But if she does not intend to violate Jewish law and only wants to conduct herself in a way that doesn’t appeal to you, then I think there is room for the two of you to reach a compromise.
What you call a Torah home may not be something she agrees with. That is worth clarifying. If there is no agreement on that, then it is not a side issue as you described.
The discussion of these matters should take place on two levels: 1. Consideration for you. 2. The direction and character of the home. (Pants, for example, are not a problem at all in my view. But it is worth checking whether this is only a fashion choice or whether it expresses a different religious approach that will also show itself in more substantive issues.) Both of these levels are important not only in themselves but also as an indication of the relationship between you. If these issues will bother you and she does them anyway, then the connection between you is not as complete as you describe. I understand if she says she will not accept dictates because she wants to decide how to dress, but she still should take your feelings and wishes into account and consider them. And needless to say, you should do the same for her, of course. You should give in on matters that are not essential, even if they bother you.
Discussion on Answer
It doesn’t seem to me that there is any special modesty issue with pants. Today everyone goes around like that, and I don’t see a problem. There is of course such a thing as dressing modestly or immodestly, but that is also true of dresses and skirts.
Usually people bring up here the issue of men’s clothing, but that has long since ceased to be relevant.
Hello Rabbi. Why is there no issue with pants? As far as I know, most halakhic decisors prohibited them on grounds of modesty.
Thank you in advance.