The second chapter of Ketubot! A woman who is widowed or divorced testifies that she was a virgin when they married – and the husband testifies that she was a widow then. Which needs witnesses as to how she was dressed when she left her father’s house. Plus, other indications of the time. But what if there are no witnesses? Then he is credible (not Rabban Gamliel’s approach, it seems at first blush). Also, a discussion of how the majority of brides are virgins. And that majority should negate the need for testimony! But there were extenuating circumstances that make the testimony relevant. || Talmudic Principles: ha-peh she-asar hu ha-peh she-hitir.
Click here for the Talking Talmud podcast on Ketubot 16.
To listen: Click the link above. Or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Or join the Talking Talmud WhatsApp group, and receive the link as soon as it goes up.
Please like our Facebook page and join our conversation there: <a href=”https://www.facebook.com/Talking-Talmud-113324056898191/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener