miqveh

A miqveh, also spelled mikveh or mikvah, is a ritual bath used in Judaism for purification. The term comes from the Hebrew word mikveh, which means "bath." Miqvehs are typically found in synagogues, Jewish community centers, or dedicated buildings. They are used for various purposes, including:

1. Niddah: A woman who has had a menstrual period or given birth must immerse herself in a miqveh to become ritually clean before resuming sexual relations with her husband.

2. Tevilah: This is the immersion of a newborn baby in a miqveh to make them ritually clean and Jewish.

3. Tevilat Kelim: This is the immersion of ritual vessels in a miqveh to make them ritually clean.

Miqvehs are designed to hold a certain volume of water, typically around 40 seahs, which is equivalent to about 1,200 liters or 320 gallons. The water must be clean and free of impurities. The immersion process involves submerging the person or object completely in the water for a specific amount of time, usually around 20 minutes.

The use of miqvehs is a practice that has been observed in Judaism for thousands of years, with its origins tracing back to the biblical period. Today, miqvehs are an essential part of Jewish life and ritual practice.