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Chasidic sect offers cash boost to solve ‘matchmaking crisis’
The shortage of matchmakers has been cited as a key factor in the declining number of marriages within the community
April 22, 2025 10:25
The shortage of matchmakers has been cited as a key factor in the declining number of marriages within the community
April 22, 2025 10:25A Chasidic sect in Israel has announced a significant increase in pay for matchmakers involved in arranging marriages, in response to what it describes as a “severe matchmaking crisis,”
The move, which doubles the standard matchmaking fee, is part of a broader effort to address a decline in shidduchim traditional arranged matches within the Gur community.
A letter published by the Gur Matchmaking Association and signed by 26 active shadchanim (matchmakers) outlined the rationale behind the new policy.
“Due to the severe matchmaking crisis and a significant drop in the number of active matchmakers, we held extensive consultations to understand how to reverse this troubling trend,” the letter stated.
Beginning Rosh Hashanah 5786 (October 2025), matchmakers will receive NIS 10,000 (approximately £2,160) from each side for matches involving individuals aged 20 and older, up from the previous standard of NIS 5,000 (£1,006).
The rate for those under 20 will remain unchanged. The association has encouraged families who can afford it to begin offering the higher payment ahead of the formal launch date.
Gur, one of the largest Chasidic groups in Israel, maintains a highly centralised structure and traditionally encourages marriage at a young age, often between 18 and 20.
Matches are typically arranged within the sect, contributing to a limited dating pool and, according to community members, increasing the difficulty of arranging suitable matches for those who remain unmarried past the expected age.
“It’s not that people don’t want to get married, it’s that there are fewer opportunities to meet someone suitable within the community,” one member told Kikar HaShabbat, an Orthodox news outlet.
The shortage of matchmakers has been cited as a key factor in the reduced number of successful matches.
The association’s letter called for community members to consider exceeding the mandatory fee where possible, especially for younger matches: “Even if your child is under 20, and you can afford it, consider giving more than the required amount. Every bit helps support those who dedicate their lives to helping others marry and build families.”
The decision to increase payment rates was approved by religious authorities within the sect and is being presented as a communal strategy to revitalise the matchmaking system and sustain the practice of early marriage.
The letter closed with a collective wish for success in matchmaking and an emphasis on the importance of the role matchmakers continue to play in the community’s social fabric.