The list of forbidden relationships in Vayikra refers often to “pollution” but makes no mention of violating sexual consent. In our moment, however, consent is one of the most critical components of sexual ethics. How does the Torah’s language of sexual pollution intersect with our understanding of sexual consent, coercion, and stigma? How can Torah point us towards a sexual ethics that cultivates dignity and agency?

Download to read or listen to the full Dvar Torah below.