To do Yibum (marry childless brother's widow)

This mitzvah commands the surviving brother to marry the widow of his childless brother, known as yibbum. The first child born from this union continues the name and legacy of the deceased brother, preserving his place within Israel. While today halacha prioritizes chalitzah (releasing the widow), the Torah originally presents yibbum as a sacred act of kindness and continuity, ensuring the deceased brother’s line is not extinguished.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Yibbum v’Chalitzah 1:1): Explains that yibbum was a positive mitzvah from the Torah, though rabbinic law later emphasized chalitzah to avoid improper intentions.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 598): The root is to preserve a man’s memory and inheritance in Israel by raising up offspring in his name.
• Talmud (Yevamot 39b): Debates whether yibbum or chalitzah is preferable, concluding that chalitzah is generally practiced unless yibbum is clearly done for the sake of the mitzvah.