Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 18:13 mean when it says 'Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother’s sister'?
A: This verse prohibits intimate relations with one’s maternal aunt (mother’s sister). The Torah considers this a forbidden relationship, similar to other prohibited family relationships listed in Leviticus 18. The phrase 'uncover the nakedness' is a biblical expression referring to marital or intimate relations. Rashi explains that this prohibition applies even if the aunt is not biologically related (e.g., if she is the mother’s stepsister).
Q: Why is the prohibition against relations with a maternal aunt important in Judaism?
A: This prohibition, like other forbidden relationships in Leviticus 18, helps maintain proper family boundaries and moral sanctity. The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Bi’ah 1:1) teaches that these laws elevate human conduct by distinguishing Israel from other nations. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 58a) also discusses how these laws apply universally as part of the Noahide Code for all humanity.
Q: Does Leviticus 18:13 also apply to a father’s sister (paternal aunt)?
A: Yes, the prohibition extends to both maternal and paternal aunts. While Leviticus 18:13 specifically mentions the mother’s sister, Leviticus 18:12 separately prohibits relations with a father’s sister. The Talmud (Yevamot 54b) clarifies that both are equally forbidden, as they are close blood relatives.
Q: How does this verse apply in modern times?
A: The prohibition remains binding today as part of Torah law. The Shulchan Aruch (Even HaEzer 15:1) codifies this as a permanent restriction, regardless of cultural changes. Jewish law strictly forbids marriage or intimate relations with any aunt, whether maternal or paternal, and considers such a union invalid (pasul).
Q: What is the reason behind the Torah’s prohibition of relations with an aunt?
A: Classic Jewish sources offer several explanations: 1) The Midrash (Sifra Kedoshim) teaches that these laws preserve family purity. 2) Ramban (on Leviticus 18:6) suggests they prevent disruption of natural family roles. 3) Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 188) explains that such relationships would lead to familial chaos and moral degradation. All agree that these boundaries are divinely ordained for societal holiness.
Prohibition Against Relations with a Maternal Aunt
The verse "עֶרְוַת אֲחוֹת־אִמְּךָ לֹא תְגַלֵּה כִּי־שְׁאֵר אִמְּךָ הִוא" (Vayikra 18:13) prohibits uncovering the nakedness of one's maternal aunt, emphasizing her close familial relationship to one's mother. This prohibition is part of the broader framework of forbidden relationships (איסורי עריות) outlined in Parshat Acharei Mot.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 18:13) clarifies that the phrase "כִּי־שְׁאֵר אִמְּךָ הִוא" ("for she is thy mother’s near kinswoman") serves as the reason for the prohibition. He explains that the maternal aunt is considered an extension of one's mother's flesh (שארה), making such a relationship akin to a violation of the sanctity of the mother herself. This aligns with the Torah’s broader principle of preserving family purity and boundaries.
Rambam's Legal Perspective
In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Issurei Bi'ah 2:6), the Rambam codifies this prohibition as one of the 24 forbidden relationships listed in the Torah. He emphasizes that this prohibition applies whether the aunt is the sister of one’s mother from the same parents or only from the mother’s side (i.e., a half-sister). The severity of this prohibition is underscored by its inclusion in the capital offenses (though in practice, capital punishment is not administered in the absence of a Sanhedrin).
Midrashic Insight
The Midrash (Torat Kohanim, Acharei Mot 13:7) links this prohibition to the broader theme of maintaining moral and familial sanctity. It teaches that violating these boundaries disrupts the divine order (סדר הבריאה) and undermines the kedushah (holiness) expected of Bnei Yisrael. The maternal aunt, as a nurturing figure akin to one’s mother, is owed reverence and distance in matters of intimacy.
Practical Implications in Halacha