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It is forbidden to engage in Yidoni, a sorcery practice of producing voices or oracles through bones or other occult means.
This mitzvah prohibits Yidoni, an occult practice described in the Talmud (Sanhedrin 65b) as placing a bone (often of a bird called yadua) in the mouth, producing a voice that seemed to speak hidden knowledge. Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:14) codifies Yidoni as a form of sorcery distinct from Ov, yet equally destructive, deceiving people into trusting in foreign powers.
Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 256) emphasizes that Yidoni corrupts emunah by creating reliance on illusionary omens rather than Torah. Rashi (Lev. 19:31) interprets it as a defilement that distances Israel from kedushah. Ramban explains that Torah forbids it not because of inherent efficacy but because indulging in superstition defiles the soul and erodes Israel’s covenant. Midrash (Tanchuma Shoftim §9) connects Yidoni with abandoning Hashem’s direct guidance in favor of false intermediaries.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Mitzvah 47 (Not to perform Ov):
Parallel to Mitzvah 43 (Not to listen to a false prophet):
Rejecting “Magical Knowledge”
Spiritual Discipline in an Age of Mysticism
Guarding Integrity Against Deception
Trust in Hashem Alone
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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.
Pertains to the power of speech—both positive and negative—including lashon hara, vows, and blessings.
Signifies awe and reverence toward Hashem—living with awareness of His greatness and presence.
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.
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.
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