Contrary to the image of the Jewish community as decidedly liberal Democrat or single-issue voters for Israel, the culture war is the #1 issue for religious Jews in America. I have been involved in this movement. Theologically, we cannot condone, sanction, or abide by any same sex unholy union. Thus, the proposed religious exemptions would force our rabbis into agreeing with the part we don't agree with by agreeing with the part we do.
I think the biggest reason not to codify living in sin is because it is a vehicle for gay adoption. Adoption is never a "right." There is at least some evidence of kids being warped in such an environment and that should outweigh the desire to play house. Adoption is intended to provide needy children with safe homes, not to provide needy adults with children. People tend to forget that.
Contrary to the image of the Jewish community as decidedly liberal Democrat or single-issue voters for Israel, the culture war is the #1 issue for religious Jews in America. I have been involved in this movement. Theologically, we cannot condone, sanction, or abide by any same sex unholy union. Thus, the proposed religious exemptions would force our rabbis into agreeing with the part we don't agree with by agreeing with the part we do.
I think the biggest reason not to codify living in sin is because it is a vehicle for gay adoption. Adoption is never a "right." There is at least some evidence of kids being warped in such an environment and that should outweigh the desire to play house. Adoption is intended to provide needy children with safe homes, not to provide needy adults with children. People tend to forget that.
Thank you for writing this and bringing perspective on and to our lonely, hurting world.