Cherem

Cherem (Hebrew: חֵרֶם, Modern: kherem, Tiberian: ḥērem) is a term from Jewish law and tradition that refers to the act of excommunication or exclusion from the Jewish community. It is derived from the Hebrew root ḥ-r-m, which means "to dedicate" or "to ban." The cherem is a severe form of punishment, often imposed by a rabbinical court or community leaders, intended to isolate an individual or group for violating religious or communal laws. The concept of cherem is also found in the Bible, where it is used to describe the dedication of objects or people to the service of God, sometimes involving their destruction or exclusion. In some contexts, cherem can also refer to a ban on certain activities or items, such as food or trade. The term has been translated into other languages, including Yiddish (kherem or kherem) and Ladino (kherem), reflecting its significance in various Jewish communities throughout history.