עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is it permitted for a brother and sister to hug each other?
Question
According to the opinion of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef zt"l, is it allowed for a brother and sister to hug each other? Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
A brother is permitted to touch his sister affectionately until she reaches the age of 11, and a sister is permitted to touch her brother affectionately until he reaches the age of 12. However, touching that is not done affectionately is permitted at any age, even if the sister is married.
Sources: See Shulchan Aruch Even HaEzer (Siman 21, Seif 7), Responsa Avnei Yeshefer part 2 (Siman 90), and the book Um Ani Choma part 1 (S"k 440).
Sincerely,
Hillel Meirs
