Yichud – uncle with nieces
Question
Shalom, Rabbi, I wanted to ask:
What is the halachic status of an uncle alone in an apartment if a 6‑year‑old niece is sleeping, and a 4‑year‑old nephew is sleeping, and a niece under 3 years old?
What is the halachic status of an uncle alone in an apartment if a 6‑year‑old niece is sleeping, and a 4‑year‑old nephew is sleeping, and a niece under 3 years old?
Answer
Shalom u’vracha.
There is a prohibition of yichud between an uncle and his nieces.
The age at which a child is considered a guardian (shomer) is roughly between 5 and 10 years old [approximately; it also depends on the level of understanding].
When they are sleeping, two such guardians are required.
Therefore, in the case you asked about, it is forbidden for the uncle to be in yichud with them.
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