DATE:  Feb. 17, 2003

CONTACT: Tina Luther, (210) 458-2257; tluther@utsa.edu

MIKVAH: A RITUAL BATH EXHIBIT AND EVENT AT ITC

(San Antonio)— The Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) highlights Women's History Month (March) with a photography display, “Mikvah: A Ritual Bath.”  This exhibit, which focuses on the resurgence of a tradition more than 3,000 years old, will be shown from March 4 through April 20, in the Jewish Area of the ITC Exhibit Floor.

A mikvah is a pool filled with approximately 200 gallons of water obtained from a natural source (i.e., a spring, fresh rainwater), which ensures the sanctity and purity of the ritual.  The intimate practice of the mikvah, or immersion rite, is one that has been maintained by Jewish women since Biblical times.  Today, this private celebration of womanhood is passed down from mother to daughter. 

Curators Janice Ruben and Leah Lax will present personal stories behind the photos at 2:30 p.m. March 9, in a slide show/lecture presentation in the ITC Dome Theater. 

One of three University of Texas at San Antonio campuses, the ITC is an educational center focusing on Texas history and cultures.  Admission fees are: $5, adults; $2, children (3-12 years); $3, seniors (65 years or older); $3, military personnel with ID; and free, members, UTSA students and employees and children 2 years and under.  For more information, call (210) 458-2330 or visit www.texancultures.utsa.edu.

###

© copyright 2003 Institute of Texan Cultures at UTSA