Reply To: Rabbonim and Shalom Bayis Problems

As the OP, I must chime in again. While I among those who view the rabbinical role in marital problems with skepticism, I cannot buy any statement that places the responsibility for any cluster of gittin at the feet of rabbis. There are so many factors that lead to gittin that naming a single “cause” is inaccurate and primitively foolish.

My intent was to generate dialogue about the advisability of seeking rabbinical counseling here. I have much direct contact with cases such as were described by Rabbi Weinberger. Inasmuch as these rabbis are not trained in rabbinical counseling, and are conducting such services by default of their job, I question the saichel in seeking their advice. The smartest line in any of the comments thus far was the quite from Rabbi Weinberger by awarenessvaad, “He is advocating getting Rabbonim to agree not to get involved in sholom bayis issues with out the joint involvement of a therapist.” I do not minimize the value of input by the Rav. However, I do question it seriously when the therapist is excluded. In an earlier comment, I explained my reasoning, as the approach is very different. The Rav seeks right vs. wrong, not the mission of diminishing and eliminating the barriers between the couple.