Our Gemara on Amud Aleph quotes the verse from Shemos (22:6–7) that discusses the legal process of a watchman whose object is stolen, and the liabilities to the owner. The verse states:
When one person gives money or goods to another for safekeeping, and they are stolen from that person’s house: if caught, the thief shall pay double; if the thief is not caught, the owner of the house shall depose before God and deny laying hands on the other’s property.
The Chasam Sofer on the Torah (ibid.), in the name of his revered Rebbe (Rav Nosson Adler), interprets these verses as an allegory. God is the Owner and the person is the watchman who guards the objects—money or goods—that is, his physical body and its gifts and his wealth. But if he “steals” them, that is, misuses them, he will suffer a double punishment. If he comes before God (and repents), then he will be acquitted, unless he “laid hands on other people’s property,” that is, hurt others. Repentance before God is not accepted if someone was hurt and that person has not forgiven (Mishna Yoma 8:9).
It’s worth pointing out that this allegory isn’t as far from the pashut peshat as one might think. Ultimately the laws of the watchmen and liability over objects are a discussion of personal responsibility and liability over what is entrusted to another. Why should we not consider ourselves as guardians of our bodies, possessions, and our souls? We are responsible to keep them safe and return them to their Maker in good condition.
sponsored by https://empowermentaftertrauma.com/
Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation
Free resource for couples/families:
The Chosson and Kallah Shmooze You Wish You Had But Never Got
Over 80 lectures on heathy communication, marriage and sexuality from a Torah perspective Click here
If you liked this, you might enjoy my Relationship Communications Guide. Click on the link above.
Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, LCSW-R, LMFT, DHL is a psychotherapist who works with high conflict couples and families. He can be reached via email at simchafeuerman@gmail.com