Project Genesis




Concern for Someone Else’s Sin

Question: Could you extrapolate, perhaps offer some references to explore, the issue of the sin committed unwittingly. I am thinking about for example when you know someone is not taking care of themselves and you do not say or do anything to help – an act of omission of rather than commission. Any thoughts?

Answer: The main verse that comes to mind is: Do not stand on your neighbor’s blood (Leviticus 19:16), which means not to be passive when your neighbor requires active critical assistance. The Talmud understands this verse to refer to many different kinds of help (see, for instance, Sanhedrin 73a). It sounds like your concern about someone not taking care of his or herself would fall into this category, if you are able to intervene and you don’t.

Of course, every situation must be judged individually and you must know your own limitations. Sometimes it’s more damaging to butt in—then it’s better to back off. But if you think you can help, but it will just be uncomfortable or inconvenient for you (but still in a way you can tolerate), then it’s time to step up to the plate.

All the Best,

Shlomo Shulman
Maimonides Society at Yale, CT

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