Tumtum (Judaism)

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Frans Francken II (1581-1642) (studio of) - Abraham and Sarah Visited by Three Angels - 1401272 - National Trust

Tumtum (Hebrew: טומטום) in Judaism refers to a person whose sex is unknown, because their genitalia are either covered by skin or are otherwise indiscernible. This concept is distinct from androgyne, another category in Jewish law, which refers to an individual who has both male and female genitalia. The status of tumtum is significant in Jewish law and Halakha because many religious obligations and prohibitions depend on the individual's sex.

Biblical and Talmudic References

The term tumtum is not explicitly mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, but it is discussed in detail in the Talmud and later Jewish legal texts. The Talmud, particularly in tractates such as Yevamot and Bikkurim, explores the legal implications of the status of tumtum and androgyne in various aspects of Jewish life, including marriage, inheritance, and religious obligations.

Halakhic Implications

The halakhic implications for a tumtum are numerous. For example, a tumtum may be exempt from certain commandments that are gender-specific. Men are obligated in certain commandments from which women are exempt, and vice versa. Since the gender of a tumtum is unknown, their obligation in gender-specific commandments is often subject to debate among rabbinic authorities.

1. 1. 1. Marriage

In terms of marriage, a tumtum's status complicates the ability to marry under Jewish law, as the gender-specific obligations and rights within marriage cannot be clearly applied.

1. 1. 1. Inheritance

Regarding inheritance, a tumtum might face challenges, as sons have certain rights to their father's estate that daughters do not, and vice versa, depending on the specific circumstances and interpretations of Jewish law.

1. 1. 1. Religious Obligations

Religious obligations, such as the obligation to participate in a minyan (prayer quorum), which traditionally requires ten men, or the obligation to wear Tefillin, are also areas where the status of a tumtum requires careful consideration.

Modern Perspectives

In contemporary times, the discussion around tumtum and androgyne has expanded to intersect with conversations about gender identity, intersex conditions, and LGBTQ rights within Judaism. Some modern Jewish thinkers and legal authorities explore how ancient concepts of gender can inform or adapt to contemporary understandings of gender and sexuality.

See Also

• Androgyne
• Intersex
• Gender in Judaism
• Halakha