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History of Baptism: Difference between revisions
→The Jewish Ritual of Baptism
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=The Jewish Ritual of Baptism= | =The Jewish Ritual of Baptism= | ||
Immersion in a ritual bath (''Mikvah'')is required for | Immersion in a ritual bath (''Mikvah'') is required for "ger tzedek" (converts to Judaism) as part of their conversion. Other rituals for conversion to Judaism include circumcision and an understanding and observance of all the relevant laws. | ||
In the Tanakh, and other Jewish texts, bathing for ritual purification was established for specified circumstances; in order to be restored to a condition of 'ritual purity'. For example, Jews who become ritually 'defiled' by contact with a corpse (according to the Law of Moses), had to use the mikvah before being | In the Tanakh, and other Jewish texts, bathing for ritual purification was established for specified circumstances; in order to be restored to a condition of 'ritual purity'. For example, Jews who become ritually 'defiled' by contact with a corpse (according to the Law of Moses), had to use the mikvah before being allowed to participate in the Holy Temple. Through practices such as these, immersion in the mikveh represents purification and restoration, and qualification for full religious participation in the life of the community. (See Book of Numbers Chapter 19) | ||
In modern times, the adherence and observance of the laws, rituals, and customs regarding the mikvah differ greatly among the Jewish denominations. The only modern exception is that after menses, women need to immerse in a mikvah in order to be permitted to her husband. | In modern times, the adherence and observance of the laws, rituals, and customs regarding the mikvah differ greatly among the Jewish denominations. The only modern exception is that after menses, women need to immerse in a mikvah in order to be permitted to her husband. | ||
=John the Baptist= | =John the Baptist= | ||