talmidahs

Talmidahs is a transliterated English term referring to female students in Jewish study. It is the feminine form of the Hebrew word talmidah, from the root ל-מ-ד, meaning “to learn.” The masculine forms are talmid (singular) and talmidim (plural); the feminine plural is commonly rendered talmidot in Hebrew, though talmidahs is widely used in English transliteration.

In practice, talmidahs study Jewish texts and subjects such as Torah, Tanakh, rabbinic literature, and Jewish law. In many communities, women study in female‑only institutions such as seminaries, midrashot, and other programs, while men often attend yeshivas. The structure and emphasis of study can vary by denomination and country.

Historically, formal Torah study for women was limited in many periods. Beginning in the 19th and 20th centuries, efforts to expand female education led to the establishment of institutions dedicated to women's Torah study, with continuing growth in subsequent decades. Today, talmidahs may pursue intensive text study, religious leadership training, or secular studies alongside religious coursework.

Today, a wide range of programs for talmidahs exists worldwide, including in Israel and diaspora communities. These programs emphasize mastery of Hebrew, Bible, commentaries, Jewish law, philosophy, and pedagogy. Graduates commonly pursue teaching, curriculum development, administrative roles in synagogues and schools, or advanced scholarship. The term underscores the ongoing expansion of female participation in traditional Jewish learning.