Understanding Inclusivity and Reconciliation in Deuteronomy 23:8-9

Question

I saw somewhere in Leviticus or Deuteronomy, something like, "Jews are not allowed to marry outside of their religion or they will be punished for 3 generations." I can't seem to be able to find this. Jews are not supposed to pollute their gene pool with Gentile blood. I have noticed that men that I have dated are from a Jew-Gentile Union are all Bi-polar. And women who are Bi-polar are from 2nd generation Jew Gentile marriages. I have a difficult time acquiring information regarding the 3rd generation. I suspect that the ancient holy men may have been aware of this phenomenon. Can you tell me the number of the scripture? Are you aware of this phenomenon? Thank you for your support.

Answer

Thank you for your question

I assume you are referring to this verse from Deuteronomy 23:8-9.

(8) "You shall not abhor an Edomite, for he is your brother; you shall not abhor an Egyptian, because you were a stranger in his land. (9) Children born to them in the third generation may enter the assembly of the LORD."

The instruction regarding the Egyptians, "You shall not abhor an Egyptian, because you were a stranger in his land," calls us to remember our shared humanity and the kindnesses that exist even in complex relationships. Though the Israelites were enslaved by the Egyptians, they also lived as sojourners in their land. the third generation if they convert can marry into the Jewish nation. This teaches us to acknowledge the complexity of human relationships and to find space for gratitude, even when reflecting on difficult periods of our history.

Wishing you much success.


 


Source

 Deuteronomy 23:8-9.

Comments

Have an additional question on this topic or need clarification? Leave your comment below. (Please note that the comment will not be published but will be sent directly to the answering Rabbi for review and a private response)

Please sign up or log in to submit your comment

Become our partners in supporting and spreading the Torah. Help us answer more questions faster and better.
Next