39

Not to save the missionary

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Idolatry – עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

Do not attempt to save or defend one who seeks to lead others to idolatry.

This mitzvah forbids saving the mesit (missionary to idolatry) from punishment. While Jewish law normally leans toward mercy and finding merit for the accused, the Torah makes an exception for the enticer, due to the extreme danger he poses by seeking to sever others from Hashem. Showing him pity or offering protection would legitimize his corruption and encourage idolatry.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 5:4): Unlike other cases, one may not plead for or protect the mesit in judgment. The Torah commands that his guilt must be brought forth.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 465): The root is to deter the spread of idolatry by ensuring that its advocates receive no defense or sympathy.
  • Talmud (Sanhedrin 67a): Stresses that the enticer is unique — the court actively seeks his conviction, unlike other cases where they seek acquittal.
(Source: Chabad.org)
לֹא־תֹאבֶ֣ה ל֔וֹ וְלֹ֥א תִשְׁמַ֖ע אֵלָ֑יו וְלֹא־תָח֤וֹס עֵֽינְךָ֙ עָלָ֔יו וְלֹֽא־תַחְמֹ֥ל וְלֹֽא־תְכַסֶּ֖ה עָלָֽיו׃ - פָּרָשַׁת רְאֵה
Deuteronomy 13:9 - "You shall not desire him, and you shall not hearken to him; neither shall you pity him, have mercy upon him, nor shield him."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Idolatry - עֲבוֹדָה זָרָה

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Mitzvot that prohibit worship of false gods and practices associated with idol worship.

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Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.

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