Rebbetzin

Rebbetzin, also spelled Rebbitzen, is a title in Jewish communities primarily used to refer to the wife of a rabbi. The term originates in Yiddish rebetsin, from rabbi with a feminine suffix, and is most commonly associated with Ashkenazi and Hasidic contexts. In the broad sense, a Rebbetzin can be a respected female religious leader in her own right, but in many communities she is identified primarily as the spouse of a rabbi who shares in community responsibilities.

In traditional Orthodox settings, the Rebbetzin plays a prominent communal role, offering pastoral support to families, organizing study groups for women, teaching Torah and Jewish law to women, hosting guests, and assisting with charitable activities. She often serves as a partner to her husband in leadership, providing guidance, hospitality, and outreach that complement the rabbi's public duties. The scope of authority varies; a Rebbetzin is typically not the sole halachic decisor for matters involving men, though she may be sought for guidance on family and women's issues.

Usage differs by community. Some circles distinguish between Rebbetzin (wife of a rabbi) and Rabbanit or Rabbanit (female rabbi) for a woman who has formal training or ordination. In Modern Hebrew, rabbanit has become common for a woman with such standing, while Rebbetzin may continue to denote the rabbi's wife, regardless of formal ordination. The role is cultural and varies across denominations and geographic regions.