Baalat Teshuva Marrying a Kohen
Question
Hi. I’m a female baal teshuva who unfortunately has had a past of sexual relations with a non jew. I’m now dating and hoping to marry a Kohen but I’ve heard that’s not allowed. I feel so stupid about the whole situation because we’re extremely close and really want to get married. if we found out we can’t, I really don’t think I will be able to love someone else the way I love him. What are the laws on this? Is there any way we can still get married? What happens if we do?
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
As a general rule, a Kohen may not marry a woman who ever had relations with a non-Jew.
However, this is a very delicate and complicated issue and it is worth speaking to a competent otherdox rabbi who will render a final ruling for your specific case.
Source
E.H. 6:8