The Approach of Halakha to Lesbian Relationships: At the Margins Cover Image

Stosunek halachy do relacji lesbijskich. Na marginesie
The Approach of Halakha to Lesbian Relationships: At the Margins

Author(s): Aleksandra Janczewska
Subject(s): Gender Studies, Gender history
Published by: Uniwersytet im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu
Keywords: Judaism; Halakha; rabinic literature; female homoeroticism;

Summary/Abstract: This article examines the evolution of halakhic approach to lesbian relationshipsin rabbinic sources over the centuries. Using a diachronic framework, it analyzes earlymidrashim (Sifra, Genesis Rabba, Leviticus Rabba), passages from the Babylonian andJerusalem Talmuds (Yevamot 76a), and medieval halakhic codes (Rashi, Maimonides, TurEven HaEzer, Shulchan aruch). Employing critical discourse analysis, the study tracesshifts in how female homoeroticism was defined, judged, and sanctioned. The analysis alsoreveals rhetorical strategies that equate lesbian relations with foreign customs to justifysocial and religious distancing.

  • Issue Year: 51/2025
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 27-39
  • Page Count: 13
  • Language: Polish
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