Perfection: The Physical Aspect

The woman's monthly cycle consists of three stages: During the first stage, the lining of the uterus decomposes and leaves the body in a flow of blood. At this time, the uterus is fragile and more vulnerable to infection from without. It can be likened to an organ which has an open wound. The blood vessels which lie below the mucus tissue being shed are now exposed and can easily absorb any germ to which they are exposed. Physical intimacy at this stage of the monthly cycle thus exposes the woman to an increased risk of internal infection.

Due to the hormones excreted at this time by the woman's body, she feels a degree of discomfort accompanied, in many cases, by emotional changes as well. She has little interest in physical contact with her husband.

During the days of menstruation, the Torah unequivocally forbids any physical contact between husband and wife. Rather than being a deprivation, it is an undisguised blessing for both husband and wife, as it circumvents the risk of infection to the woman. In addition, it is of benefit to both husband and wife by preventing intimacy which would be less satisfying owing to the woman's altered emotional state and her natural disinterest in intimacy.

The second phase of the monthly cycle, is known as the proliferative stage. Over a period of seven days the body again builds up a spongy lining in the uterus that is rich in blood vessels. In the case of a new pregnancy, there will be an ample supply of blood to nourish the embryo. Thus this newly formed sponge-like lining is perfectly suited to accommodating a fertilized cell which will then develop into an embryo, then a fetus, bringing new life into the world. This period corresponds precisely to the “seven clean days” which the woman should observe immediately following menstruation. Her body is still vulnerable during these days. By Torah Law, physical contact between husband and wife is prohibited during this week, as well. This prohibition guards the woman's health during the time her body needs to recover its full robustness after menstruation. The woman must observe seven days during which no flow of blood is detected before immersing in a mikveh so that she will be permitted to her husband again.

The third and final portion of the menstrual cycle commences with the moment of ovulation, that is, the release of the female egg or ovum from the ovary. During this period, the womb is healthy and fully prepared for the commencement of a new pregnancy. It produces an acidic discharge which lubricates the passageway leading towards it with a fluid which neutralizes any germs which might lead to an infection of the uterus or the Fallopian tubes.

In Jewish law, the corresponding period commences with the woman's immersion in a mikveh, after which intimacy with her husband is permitted. At this time, the woman's body is at its maximum potential to achieve pregnancy and to experience optimal physical intimacy with her husband, to the benefit of both. It is during these two weeks that they will be joined not only in a physical sense, but also emotional, in a bond of true love.

Natural Perfection in Woman: The Emotional Aspect

A woman's hormones play an essential role in her monthly cycle. They initiate each stage of physical change and terminate it. In addition, they have a decided effect on her emotional state. During her menstrual cycle, she experiences not only physical discomfort, but also changes of mood. She has no heart for intimacy with her husband, and may be more tense and emotionally sensitive than at other times. She is not at peace with herself, much less with others.

Every couple who observes the Laws of Family Purity with an understanding that their purpose is to help them achieve true love, discovers that the bond between them is unlimited.  They see, feel, and sense that this system fosters a monthly renewal and brings them stability, joy, and endless love.