עברית
Halachot and Customs
Is there a prohibition against touching between siblings?
Question
Hello, I would like to know whether there is a prohibition against touching between siblings? And is it necessary to be stringent if there is no prohibition? I would appreciate sources, please.
Answer
Shalom u-vracha,
A brother may not touch his sister affectionately from the time she is 11, and a sister may not touch her brother affectionately from the time he is 12. However, non-affectionate touching is permitted at any age, even if the sister is married.
Sources: See Shulchan Aruch, Even HaEzer (siman 21, seif 7), Teshuvot Avnei Yashpeh, Part 2 (siman 90), and Sefer Um Ani Chomah, Part 1 (s.k. 268).
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
