Looking to connect with fellow Jews near you? You are in luck! There are many Jewish dating apps and websites, even more when you consider how you can use other apps to specify your religious preferences as well. Whether you live in Israel, the United States or any other country – these apps can help you connect with other Jewish singles.
What does the Torah say about dating?
The Torah, the central text of Judaism, does not explicitly discuss dating, as the concept of dating as a modern practice did not exist during the time the Torah was written. However, the Torah does provide guidance on relationships and marriage. It emphasizes the importance of finding a suitable partner, as well as the responsibility of both partners to maintain a healthy and faithful marriage. For example, the book of Proverbs states, “He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord” (Proverbs 18:22).
Jewish tradition places a strong emphasis on family, community, and maintaining Jewish continuity, which is reflected in the importance placed on finding a suitable spouse. There are also specific guidelines and customs regarding matchmaking and the marriage process in Jewish tradition, such as the use of a shadchan (matchmaker) and the ketubah (marriage contract).
Overall, while the Torah does not specifically address dating, it does provide guidance on relationships and emphasizes the importance of finding a suitable partner and maintaining a healthy marriage.
The role of marriage in Judaism
In Judaism, marriage is considered a sacred union between a man and a woman, with the primary purpose of creating a family and fulfilling God’s commandment to “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). Marriage is viewed as a partnership in which the husband and wife work together to build a home and raise children, and is seen as a way to achieve personal growth and bring holiness into the world.
The Torah and other Jewish texts provide guidance on marriage and family life, emphasizing the importance of love, respect, and commitment between spouses. For example, in Proverbs 31:10-31, a passage often read at Jewish weddings, the qualities of a virtuous wife are described, including her loyalty, hard work, and devotion to her family.
Jewish law, or halakhah, also contains detailed guidelines for marriage and family life, covering topics such as courtship, engagement, the marriage ceremony, and marital obligations. For example, the ketubah, a marriage contract, outlines the husband’s financial obligations to his wife in case of divorce or death, and the mikveh, a ritual bath, is often used by brides and married women to mark significant life events.
Overall, marriage is viewed as a cornerstone of Jewish life, with the potential to bring joy, meaning, and fulfillment to both the individual and the community.
Top dating apps for Jewish singles
There are many Jewish dating apps and sites. The one you like the best will depend on what you are looking for. Though JSwipe and JDate are widely known and popular, there are alternatives that fit more niche interests. Further, mainstream and secular apps like Tinder or Bumble are also common for religious people. For example, single daters might put the emojis like the star of David ✡️, synagogue 🕍 or menorah 🕎 in their bio to signify their religious affiliation.
- JCrush
- JDate
- JSwipe
- JWed
- Mazel Match
- Shalom
- Tribe
- Yente over the rainbow
Dating sites
If you are looking for an alternative to Jewish dating apps, perhaps you are orthodox and prefer not to use a smartphone for dating, then here are a few Jewish dating sites:
- JewishCafe
- SawYouAtSinai
LGBTQ+ Jewish dating
Gay dating in the Jewish community can vary depending on factors such as denomination, geography, and personal beliefs. In some more conservative or traditional communities, there may be less acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and relationships. However, many Jewish individuals and organizations are supportive of the LGBTQ+ community and have created inclusive spaces for them.
Yente over the rainbow is one site that caters directly to this community. JDate, on the other hand, enables gay Jews to select their orientation.
Within other gay apps, like Grindr, Jewish people can find each other with a bit of profile customization which has led to nicknames like “JewishGrindr”.
While acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in the Jewish community is not universal among conservative sects, there are many resources and communities available for those seeking acceptance and inclusivity.
Discontinued Jewish dating apps and sites
- Yenta
Are there dating apps for all Jewish denominations and sects? Do Jews tend to date different sects?
In general, Jews tend to date and marry within their own denomination or sect. For example, Orthodox Jews, like Hasids, typically marry other Orthodox Jews, and Reform Jews typically marry other Reform Jews, secular Jews might marry other secular Jews or someone from a completely different upbringing. This is not a strict rule, and there are Jews who choose to date and marry outside of their own denomination or sect. It ultimately depends on the individual and their personal beliefs and preferences. When it comes to dating apps for these sects, there are some variations among the popular apps and you can select your religious preferences on many of the apps.