63

Not to mutter incantations

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Idolatry – עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

Do not mutter incantations or cast spells.

This mitzvah forbids whispering charms, spells, or incantations intended to heal, harm, or affect outcomes. Such practices were common among idolaters, who believed words of magic could change reality. The Torah bans these false and degrading acts, teaching that only Hashem governs creation and that one must not turn to superstitious rituals.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:10): Defines this as muttering spells over wounds or animals, or using formulas to supposedly protect from harm.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 251): The root is to strengthen faith and prevent Israel from relying on falsehood and empty superstition.
  • Talmud (Sanhedrin 66b): Lists chover chaver (one who mutters spells) as among those liable for punishment, highlighting the severity of even “small” magical acts.
(Source: Chabad.org)
וְחֹבֵ֖ר חָ֑בֶר וְשֹׁאֵ֥ל אוֹב֙ וְיִדְּעֹנִ֔י וְדֹרֵ֖שׁ אֶל־הַמֵּתִֽים׃ - פָּרָשַׁת שׁוֹפְטִים
Deuteronomy 18:11 - "or a charmer, a pithom sorcerer, a yido'a sorcerer, or a necromancer."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Idolatry - עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

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Mitzvot that prohibit worship of false gods and practices associated with idol worship.

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Speech - דָּבָר

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Pertains to the power of speech—both positive and negative—including lashon hara, vows, and blessings.

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Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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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.

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