A Kohen is forbidden to marry a chalalah, a woman disqualified from priestly lineage.
This mitzvah prohibits a Kohen from marrying a chalalah — a woman who lost her priestly status due to a prohibited union (such as being born from a Kohen’s invalid marriage or herself marrying a Kohen unlawfully). A chalalah represents a desecration of the priestly line, and marriage to her would perpetuate that blemish. This prohibition emphasizes the holiness of the Kohanim, ensuring that their marriages maintain pure lineage and sanctity.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Represents the concept of spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.
Tied to the eternal covenant between G‑d and the Jewish people, including signs like brit milah and Shabbat.
Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — acts rooted in divine connection rather than human interaction.
Dive into mitzvot, prayer, and Torah study—each section curated to help you learn, reflect, and live with intention. New insights are added regularly, creating an evolving space for spiritual growth.
Explore the 613 mitzvot and uncover the meaning behind each one. Discover practical ways to integrate them into your daily life with insights, sources, and guided reflection.
Learn the structure, depth, and spiritual intent behind Jewish prayer. Dive into morning blessings, Shema, Amidah, and more—with tools to enrich your daily connection.
Each week’s parsha offers timeless wisdom and modern relevance. Explore summaries, key themes, and mitzvah connections to deepen your understanding of the Torah cycle.