mikvehs

The mikveh, plural mikva'ot or mikvehs, is a Jewish ritual bath used for immersion to achieve ritual purity according to halakha. The word means "collection" or "gathering" of waters, reflecting the gathering of water for a single purpose.

A mikveh must be filled with natural water from a living source, such as rainwater or a spring. It is traditionally required to contain a minimum volume of water—often described as 40 se'ah—and to provide a full-body immersion when used for purification. Modern mikva'ot are designed to accommodate safe and comfortable use and typically have separate facilities for men and women, with areas for preparation and privacy.

Uses of the mikveh vary by context but include purification after certain forms of ritual impurity, most notably a woman who has finished her menstrual cycle or postpartum bleeding (niddah). The mikveh is also a central element in the process of conversion to Judaism, and in some communities brides immerse before their wedding. In many traditions, immersion for men is less common but may occur in specific circumstances or denominations.

Organization and regulation of mikva'ot are usually carried out by rabbis or beit din to ensure compliance with halakhic requirements. They are commonly operated by synagogues, communal organizations, or public institutions and may be funded by congregations, women’s groups, or local authorities.

Historically grounded in Rabbinic literature, mikva'ot have deep roots in ancient Israelite purity practices. Across the Jewish world, they remain an important communal and religious institution, reflecting ongoing adherence to traditional purity laws alongside modern accessibility and governance.