Lian and Nati Ben Shlosha, a married couple, sparked a social media storm after revealing that they are first cousins. Lian confirmed the relationship on the morning show "The World This Morning," saying, "Yes. My father and his mother are siblings."
The couple said they knew each other but did not grow up together because both sets of parents were divorced. Lian explained that the distance kept them from the close childhood bond people often imagine between cousins, and that they reconnected only in their teens.
Nati also recalled that his mother had long predicted the match, telling him as a child, "I want you to marry her." What began as a childhood remark later took on new meaning when the relationship turned romantic and they decided to marry.
The decision shocked their families at first, but the reaction reportedly changed quickly into acceptance and full support. Online, however, the couple faced harsh and hostile comments. In the midst of the public uproar, the article notes an important clarification, there is no halakhic prohibition, and cousins are allowed to marry and be together.
