It is forbidden to love or show affection toward one who entices to idolatry.
This mitzvah forbids loving the mesit — the missionary who entices others to idolatry. Even natural bonds of kinship or friendship must not lead one to affection for such a person. Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 5:2) rules that the Torah commands complete severance, since affection weakens resistance to persuasion.
The Talmud (Sanhedrin 67a–b) describes how the mesit is judged with extraordinary stringency because of the danger he poses to Israel’s faith. Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 463) explains that loving the enticer erodes the very foundation of emunah, making the mitzvah a safeguard to preserve loyalty to Hashem. Rashi (Deut. 13:9) comments that the Torah explicitly prohibits affection because idolatry often spreads through emotional attachment, not intellectual persuasion. Ramban adds that the severity underscores the radical loyalty demanded in matters of avodah zarah. Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 87) portrays the mesit as spiritually poisonous, whose influence must be cut off at its root.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Mitzvah 36 (Not to missionize another):
Parallel to Mitzvah 38–41 (Not to cease hating, not to save, not to defend, not to conceal):
Guarding Emotional Attachments
Resisting “Celebrity Idolatry”
Strengthening Community Boundaries
Digital Age Friendships
Channeling Love Correctly
.webp)
.webp)
Mitzvot that prohibit worship of false gods and practices associated with idol worship.
Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.
Used for mitzvot that reflect Judaism’s foundational principles—belief in G-d, reward and punishment, prophecy, Torah from Heaven, and more. These commandments shape the lens through which all others are understood.
Reflects mitzvot rooted in love—of G‑d, others, and the world we are entrusted to uplift.
Signifies awe and reverence toward Hashem—living with awareness of His greatness and presence.
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.
