What is the context of this passage?

Who wrote this? When was it written?

Glossary

A note on the implications of the terms "Drag" and "Cross-Dressing" for transgender people

What might this verse mean for contemporary transgender, gender queer, gender nonconforming and cross-dressing people?

Questions for further discussion on Deuteronomy 22:5

Further resources

Cross-Dressing and Drag

A woman should not put on the apparel of a man; nor should a man wear the clothing of a woman—for whoever does these things—it is a to'evah [completely off-limits behavior] to the Eternal your God.

Deuteronomy 22:5

Rabbinic writings from the last 2000 years give us several interpretations of this verse.

Click on any of these to find out more.

Cross-dressing is prohibited when used as a disguise to invade someone else's space.

The prohibition on wearing men's accessories is intended to keep women from going to war.

This verse prohibits adultery.

This verse is actually about prohibiting idolatry.

Prohibitions on cross-dressing are defined by local fashion.

Cross-dressing is permitted for the purpose of joy.

This verse is meant to maintain strict distinctions between men and women.

This verse prohibits hiding your true self.