Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'uncovers his father’s skirt' mean in Deuteronomy 27:20?
A: The phrase 'uncovers his father’s skirt' is a metaphor for violating the sanctity of the marital relationship between one's father and his wife. Rashi explains that this refers to the severe prohibition of having relations with one's father's wife, even if she is not one's biological mother. It is considered a grave sin because it dishonors the father and disrupts family purity.
Q: Why is this prohibition so severe in Jewish law?
A: This prohibition is severe because it violates two fundamental principles: the sanctity of marriage (kiddushin) and the respect due to one's parents (kibud av va'em). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 54a) lists this among the most serious transgressions, as it undermines family structure and moral boundaries. The Rambam (Hilchos Issurei Bi'ah 1:6) also emphasizes its severity, classifying it as one of the forbidden relationships punishable by karet (spiritual excision).
Q: Why does the verse say 'all the people shall say, Amen'?
A: The response 'Amen' signifies the collective acceptance and affirmation of this curse by the entire nation. According to the Midrash (Sifrei Devarim), when the Jewish people stood at Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal, they publicly accepted these laws, demonstrating communal responsibility. Saying 'Amen' shows agreement with the divine decree and a commitment to uphold moral boundaries.
Q: Does this verse apply only to a biological father's wife, or also to a stepmother?
A: The prohibition applies to any woman who is or was married to one's father, whether she is the biological mother or a stepmother. The Talmud (Yevamot 21a) clarifies that the term 'father’s wife' includes even a woman who is not the man's mother, such as a father's wife from a previous or subsequent marriage. This is derived from the Torah's broad language in Leviticus 18:8 and Deuteronomy 22:30.
Q: How does this verse relate to modern Jewish life?
A: This verse reinforces the eternal Torah values of family purity (taharat hamishpacha) and moral conduct. Even today, Jewish law strictly forbids such relationships, emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper boundaries within the family. The principle also teaches broader lessons about respecting marital sanctity and avoiding behaviors that could lead to moral corruption, as discussed in ethical works like Mesillat Yesharim.
Understanding the Verse
The verse (Devarim 27:20) pronounces a curse upon one who engages in a forbidden relationship with his father's wife. This prohibition is rooted in the Torah's laws of forbidden relationships (איסורי עריות) and is considered a severe transgression.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "כי גלה כנף אביו" ("because he uncovers his father's skirt") refers to the act of dishonoring one's father by violating the sanctity of his marital bond. The term "כנף" (literally "corner" or "skirt") is a euphemism for intimacy, as seen in other biblical passages (e.g., Ruth 3:9). Rashi emphasizes that this sin is particularly grievous because it undermines the honor due to one's father.
Rambam's Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Issurei Biah 1:6), Rambam categorizes this prohibition as one of the most severe forbidden relationships, punishable by karet (spiritual excision) if done intentionally and by capital punishment if witnesses and proper warning were present. The severity stems from the dual violation of both incest and dishonoring parental authority.
Talmudic and Midrashic Insights
The Response of the People: "Amen"
The communal response of "Amen" signifies acceptance and affirmation of the curse. The Talmud (Shevuot 36a) teaches that saying "Amen" is akin to taking an oath, binding the community to uphold the sanctity of these laws. This public declaration reinforces the collective responsibility to uphold moral standards.
Moral and Ethical Implications
This verse underscores the Torah's emphasis on preserving the sanctity of family structure and honoring parental relationships. The curse serves as a deterrent, reminding the nation of the severe consequences of violating these foundational principles.