Ring that cannot be removed
10 April, 2013
Question:I am preparing for my Bridal Mikvah as a Kallah–to–be, and feel confident in my knowledge of the preparatory steps and such required.
While I know that it is necessary to remove all jewelry, I have been wearing my Grandmother's ring for many years now, and have never taken it off, as my finger joint has grown too large around the ring, making it impossible to remove. While I will, of course, remove all other jewelry and such for my immersion, what do I do about a ring that I can not physically get off of my finger?
Thank you, in advance, for your help and time. I look forward to your reply soon.
Answer:Mazal tov on your upcoming marriage!
If the ring is tight on your finger, and water is unable to freely flow between the ring and your finger, it is considered a chatzitzah (barrier to immersion) and must be removed prior to your immersion. A jeweler can assist you in having the ring removed and enlarged.
However, if the ring can't slide over the knuckle but is not tight on the finger, and water can freely flow between the ring and your finger, it does not invalidate immersion. You should still make efforts as described above to have the ring cut off and enlarged, but if you are unable to do so in time for your wedding you may immerse with the ring on. You should make sure to clean well under the ring, and while you immerse you should slide the ring around on your finger to make sure water is reaching all parts of your finger.
If you do need to immerse with the ring on, we recommend that you share this ruling with your kallah teacher so that she can discuss it in advance with the mikveh attendant.
Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.
B'Hatzlacha!
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