Halachot and Customs
Physical Contact: Is it Permitted for a Brother to Touch His Sister?
Question
Is there a problem with an unmarried brother touching his unmarried sister?
Thank you
Answer
Shalom u-vracha,
It is forbidden for a brother to touch his older sister affectionately (see Shulchan Aruch, Even HaEzer, siman 21, seif 7), and older means from age 11 (She’elot u-Teshuvot Avnei Yashpeh, part 2, siman 89, branch 8). However, touching that is not for affection is permitted at any age, even if she is married (Um Ani Chomah, part 1, seif katan 628).
With blessing,
Hillel Meirs
