Levirate marriage – once a very important law

Levirite marriage (Yibum) enabled a childless widow to remain in a clan and ensured that the deceased husband’s property stayed in the family. But as time passed, this solution to an unbearable situation has become a burdon rather than a benefit, forcing othodox jews to perform Chalitsa – a tasteless ceremoony where the obligations incumbant upon the widow and the surviving brothers are removed. Take this chance to learn all about Yibum and Chalitsa.

Session holder

Morton Narrowe is the retired, former Rabbi of Stockholm and a relatively frequent lecturer at Stockholm Limmud.

Photo: Peter Goldberg