Halachot and Customs
Is it permitted for a man to receive a massage from a woman for medical reasons?
Question
Hello, honorable rabbi!
May a married man receive a massage, such as a Swedish massage or the like, from a woman for medical reasons?
Thank you very much
Answer
Shalom,
It is forbidden for a man to receive a massage from a woman, even for medical purposes, whether she does so over his clothing or directly on his body.
Sources: This was also ruled by Rabbi Nissim Karelitz, of blessed memory, in the book Chut Shani on Even HaEzer, siman 21 (pages 70-71). See also the responsum of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, of blessed memory, cited in the book Maayan Omer, volume 12 (chapter 2, question 14/5). Also see further in Shu"t HaRishon LeTzion, volume 2 (Even HaEzer, siman 5).
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
