Deuteronomy 27:23 - Mother-in-law intimacy forbidden?

Understanding the Verse in Context

The verse "אָרוּר שֹׁכֵב עִם־חֹתַנְתּוֹ וְאָמַר כָּל־הָעָם אָמֵן" (Devarim 27:23) appears in the section of the Torah known as the "Tochecha" (Rebuke), where Moshe instructs the Jewish people to proclaim curses upon those who violate specific prohibitions upon entering Eretz Yisrael. This verse specifically addresses the prohibition of a man engaging in relations with his mother-in-law.

Prohibition and Severity

This prohibition is classified as one of the איסורי עריות (forbidden sexual relationships) in the Torah. The Rambam (Hilchos Issurei Biah 1:6) lists it among the relationships that are forbidden under the penalty of כרת (spiritual excision) if violated intentionally, or קרבן חטאת (a sin offering) if violated unintentionally. The severity of this prohibition is underscored by its inclusion in the public curses, emphasizing its moral and societal gravity.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Devarim 27:23) explains that this prohibition applies even if the man's wife (the daughter of the mother-in-law) has passed away or divorced him. The prohibition remains in effect regardless of the marital status of the daughter, highlighting the permanence of the familial boundary established by the Torah.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 23:1) connects this curse to the broader theme of maintaining sanctity within family relationships. It teaches that such prohibitions are not merely legal restrictions but are foundational to the moral fabric of the Jewish people. Violating these boundaries undermines the kedushah (holiness) that distinguishes Am Yisrael.

Public Declaration of "Amen"

The phrase "וְאָמַר כָּל־הָעָם אָמֵן" (and all the people shall say, Amen) signifies communal acknowledgment and acceptance of these prohibitions. The Talmud (Shevuos 29a) explains that saying "Amen" in this context is an affirmation of the curse and a collective commitment to uphold the Torah's laws. This public declaration reinforces the idea that societal morality is a shared responsibility.

Practical Halachic Implications

• The prohibition applies whether the mother-in-law is the mother of the man's current wife or a former wife (Shulchan Aruch, Even HaEzer 15:1).
• This relationship is forbidden even if the man's wife is deceased (Rambam, Hilchos Issurei Biah 21:1).
• The severity of the prohibition is such that it is included among the curses pronounced on Har Eival, emphasizing its importance (Talmud, Sotah 37b).