Women, Weapons, and Halacha: When Is It Permitted?

The Torah states: “A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s garment” (Devarim 22:5). 

In the Talmud (Nazir 59a) we find: “Rabbi Eliezer ben Yaakov says: From where do we know that a woman may not go out to war with weapons? As it is stated: ‘A woman shall not wear a man’s instrument…’” — meaning weapons of war.

Maimonides writes (Avodah Zarah 12:10): “A woman may not adorn herself with men’s adornments, such as placing on her head a turban or helmet, or wearing armor and similar items. And a man may not adorn himself with women’s adornments, such as wearing colorful garments or gold jewelry in places where only women do so — all according to the custom of the land. A man who wears women’s adornments, and a woman who wears men’s adornments, incurs lashes.”

The Kesef Mishneh explains that Maimonides rules according to Rabbi Eliezer ben Yaakov, as the Talmud says: “The teachings of Rabbi Eliezer ben Yaakov are few but accurate.” The Tur and Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De’ah 182:5) likewise rule as Maimonides does.

However, it is evident from the words of Maimonides and the halachic authorities that any item of clothing worn by both men and women — even if it originated as men’s clothing, is permitted for women to wear, and vice versa. If society changes its norms, the halacha adapts accordingly.

Using a Mirror

Classical sources write that a man may not look in a mirror for beautification, as this was considered a feminine practice. But since today both men and women regularly use mirrors, there is no prohibition, because it is no longer considered exclusively feminine.

Applying this to Weapons

Although weapons are generally made for men, when there is a real, necessary security concern, such as in border towns threatened by terrorists who aim to kill and cause destruction, women may train with and carry weapons to protect themselves and the children under their care. Nothing overrides the obligation to preserve life.

Rabbeinu Yehuda HaChasid writes in Sefer Chassidim (sec. 200):
“When there is danger from hostile nations, women may dress in men’s clothing and belt themselves with a sword so that the attackers think they are men. Likewise, young men without beards may dress like women to escape danger.” The Terumat HaDeshen (resp. 196) rules the same way.

This ruling is also affirmed by:

• Rabbi Ovadia Yosef (Yechaveh Da’at 5:55)

• Rabbi Moshe Feinstein (Igrot Moshe, Yoreh De’ah vol. 6, no. 35)

• And other major halachic authorities, who bring additional reasons to be lenient.

It is permitted for female teachers and kindergarten staff in dangerous areas to train and carry weapons in order to protect their schools — provided they maintain proper modesty, follow all safety regulations, and never be secluded with a man during training, as stated in Shulchan Aruch, Even HaEzer 22.

May the fear of Heaven be upon them, and may God protect their coming and going forever.