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WHAT ARE RABBIS FOR ? Are there any rituals in Judaism which one needs a rabbi to perform? Unlike other religions, which rely exclusively on their clergy to perform or administer certain rituals, Judaism permits any learned individual to perform these tasks. A Bar/Bat Mitzvah does not require a rabbi, only an aliyah to the Torah. A circumcision is valid if performed by a competent mohel, and no Rabbi is present. Uncle Moishe can preside over a funeral or unveiling, if so desired by the family. A wedding is legal, binding and valid if the m'sader k'dushin, the one performing the ceremony, is licensed by the state or province, and is learned in the laws of kiddushim (betrothal). One question therefore remains: If rabbis per se are not necessarily needed, then why do we use them for our life-cycle events? The answer is rather simple. They are the best trained and most competent to perform the necessary rituals. They are experienced, well-learned, and know the proper words to say at the right moment. However, if the family really feels the need to ask Uncle Moishe to perform the pidyon ha-ben, or whatever, then they need not worry. Copyright (c) 2001-2008 Rabbi Steven Schonblum
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