DiscoverDear RabbiWhy Do Jews Only Marry Other Jews? Understanding Intermarriage and Jewish Continuity
Why Do Jews Only Marry Other Jews? Understanding Intermarriage and Jewish Continuity

Why Do Jews Only Marry Other Jews? Understanding Intermarriage and Jewish Continuity

Update: 2025-09-03
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In this episode of Dear Rabbi, I address why Judaism traditionally encourages Jews to marry within the faith when choosing a life partner. I explain that when selecting someone to spend your entire life with, it's crucial to find someone who shares your fundamental values and worldview. Even if religion isn't important to someone today, it may become significant later in life, making shared religious identity important for long-term compatibility. I discuss how the Jewish people, despite being a small population, have maintained remarkable continuity throughout history, and marrying within the community helps preserve this continuity. I reference the Torah's warning against intermarriage, noting that one reason given is the concern that it may lead children away from Judaism. Given the tremendous losses the Jewish people have suffered through persecution and antisemitism throughout history, it's tough to see Jews lost to assimilation as well. Encouraging Jews to marry other Jews is one way to help prevent the loss of Jewish identity and ensure the continuation of Jewish traditions, values, and community for future generations.

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Why Do Jews Only Marry Other Jews? Understanding Intermarriage and Jewish Continuity

Why Do Jews Only Marry Other Jews? Understanding Intermarriage and Jewish Continuity

Menachem Lehrfield