Last week saw a rare occurrence in the Bais HaVaad’s Even HaEzer division, with the performance of a Chalitza ceremony.

Chalitza – the process by which a childless widow and a brother of her deceased husband may avoid the ‘yibum’ obligation to marry – is uncommon, and given the rarity and unique nature of the process, there are very few qualified rabbanim with the requisite knowledge and experience.

The Bais HaVaad convened a Bais Din consisting of Harav Shmuel Meir Katz Shlita, Senior Posek of Beth Medrash Govoha; along with Dayanim Harav Yakov Simiaticki, Shlita, Rosh Chabura Even Ezer; Harav Mordechai Fuchs, Shlita, Rosh Kollel Bais HaVaad Zichron Gershon; Harav Dovid Markin, Shlita, Rosh Kollel Even Haezer; and Harav Shlomo Lefkowitz, Shlita, Baal Mechaber of Shulchan Even; and performed the Chalitzah at the Bais HaVaad.

Multiple unusual Halachos were at play in this specific Chalitza.

Since it was held on Sunday, the Kvius Makom, designating a place for the Chalitza, had to be done on Erev Shabbos, so as to not pose an issue of Hachana, preparation from Shabbos to weekday. Also, after various tests designed to ascertain whether the Choletz is right-footed or left-footed, it seemed like he was left-footed. The Bais Din had to find two Chalitza shoes, for both feet, and the Choletzes was instructed how to conduct the double process.

A similar event was conducted in Lakewood in 2012.