Ki-Tetzei

Pisqa’ 253

Pisqa’ 2531

1

“The sons born to them” (Dt.23:9)—

sons, but not daughters,

[stand under the three-generation ban]:

Words of R. Shimon.

But sages say:

“Born to them” (Dt.23:9)—

this includes [Edomite and Egyptian] daughters under the rule.2

2

Said R. Shimon:

It’s a simple matter of logic!

Just as in a context

in which males are excluded forever,

females are granted immediate entry,3

doesn’t it follow logically that,

in a context such as ours (i.e., Dt.23:9),

in which males are excluded for only three generations,

we should we grant females immediate entry?

They replied to him:

If this rule has been transmitted as tradition,

we must consider it;

but if it’s only a logical deduction,

it can always be refuted!

He answered them:

No, indeed—

I’m transmitting a tradition! 4

The verse supports me:

“Sons” (Dt.23:9)—

[are excluded for three generations,]

but not daughters!

3

“By the third generation they may enter the Community of Israel” (Dt.23:9)—

is it possible to say that

the first- and second-generation offspring

[of converted Edomites and Egyptians]

shall have permission to enter,

but only the third generation shall be excluded?

The Teaching states:

“By the third generation they may enter the Community of Israel” (Dt.23:9)—

On this basis you can teach that:

First- and second-generation offspring

are forbidden entry into the community,

but the third generation is permitted.

4

Said R. Judah:

Benjamin,5 the Egyptian proselyte,

was a companion of mine among the disciples of R. Akiva.

And he announced:

I am an Egyptian proselyte,

and I am married to a woman who is an Egyptian proselyte,

and please note that I’m planning to marry my son off

to a woman who is the daughter of an Egyptian proselyte—

all so that my son’s son

may appropriately enter the community,

and fulfill what is stated:

“By the third generation they may enter the Community of Israel” (Dt.23:9). 6

  1. H:255;JN2:179-180.
  2. Cf. M. Yev. 8:3.
  3. Cf. Dt.23:4 at Pisqa 249.1-2.
  4. =M. Yev. 8:3.
  5. Some texts read: Minyamin
  6. =T. Qid. 5:4. Cf. T. Yad. 2:18.