Beth din

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A beth din is a Jewish rabbinical court. Its hearings are called a din Torah (Torah law). Beth dinim exist in Israel and in Jewish communities around the world. Rulings from a beth din are based on Jewish law (halakha), though sometimes other legal ideas may be used. Because a beth din is not part of secular law, its decisions aren’t always recognized by secular courts, especially when the case touches secular law.

History and structure
The Torah shows leaders who judge and pass on legal decisions. In ancient times there were different kinds of courts, and decisions could be escalated to higher authorities. The line of rabbinic ordination (semikhah) was passed down from Moses, but it was interrupted after the Temple was destroyed. In modern times, beth dinim are usually run by experienced rabbis and act as arbitrators under local community rules.

Who serves on a beth din
In Orthodox Judaism, a typical beth din has three observant Jewish men, with at least one who is expert in halakha to guide the others. The rabbis on the court don’t have to be experts in every area of Jewish law—only in the areas relevant to the case. Some opinions allow women to serve on a beth din; in progressive communities and some non-Orthodox streams, women may serve as well. A permanent beth din usually has three rabbis; for particular matters, a smaller panel may suffice. For very complex monetary cases or large organizations, additional “dayanim” (judges) with extra qualifications may be needed.

Israel and other streams
In Israel, a beth din is required for conversions and for gittin (divorce documents), though they can handle other matters too. Reform Judaism uses a beth din mainly for conversions. Batei din around the world may supervise a variety of religious and civil issues, depending on local practice and community rules.

Arbitration and recognition
Some Orthodox communities use a beth din to resolve civil disputes. In many modern societies, private arbitration is common, and secular courts can recognize a beth din’s rules if both parties agree. This can help people settle disputes according to religious rules while still having enforceable outcomes in civil courts.

In short, a beth din is a Jewish court that settles disputes according to Jewish law, with procedures and qualifications adapted to modern practice and community needs.