Levirate marriage If Infertile
Question
In ancient times, how would levirate marriage be performed if the woman was infertile? Was there ever such a case reasoned?
Answer
Shalom!
Thank you for your question.
The levirate marriage would take place even if it was known that either party was infertile. Although, indeed, there is much literature and discussion on the children produced from levirate marriage, namely, that they are a reincarnation of the deceased, this is not the primary reason for the mitzva.
The mitzva is for the widow to marry her husband's brother regardless of all other considerations as the act of marriage and intimacy itself is the mitzva.
I don't know of any such recorded case, but keep in mind that in ancient times, it was rare for there to be medical confirmation that one spouse was infertile and responsible for the infertility.
Nowadays, as you probably know, levirate marriage is not done. Instead, the chalitza ceremony is performed which then allows the widow to marry anyone she chooses.