What is a Mikvah?

A Mikvah is a place where natural water - mayyim chayyim - not tap water, is collected. The rainwater is contained is the cistern, called in Hebrew, bor. It is attached to the immersion pool, which is the Mikvah. In modern mikvaot (plural) the water is filtered and warmed. The term Mikvah usually refers to the whole system. A person immerses in the Mikvah in order to affect their spiritual state besides signifying physical wholeness. Immersion, tevilah, is done in modesty, respectfully and with deep religious feeling.

Mikvah is an authentic part of the physical reality of Judaism and Jewish life. It far transcends its use for conversion, but reflects upon our sexuality, family unity, illness and recovery, and a sense of God's love and nearness.

Where is the Mikvah?

The Mikvah is located at Temple Beth-El, 3330 Grove Avenue, Richmond, Virginia. We are located at the corner of Grove Avenue and Roseneath in the Fan District. Our Mikvah is located in Temple Beth-El's building at 213 Roseneath Road, on the first floor.

When did the Mikvah open and who does it serve?

The Mikvah at Temple Beth-El opened in May of 2001 and was dedicated by Morton and Shirley Brown to their mothers, Molly Brown and Sylvia Janus and their commitment to our faith in September of 2001. The Mikvah serves our community and all of Central Virginia.

For further information on the Mikvah contact Rabbi Creditor and he will be happy to help you at (804) 355-3564 or rabbi.creditor@bethelrichmond.org