Not to show favor to Idolaters

This mitzvah prohibits granting idolaters favor or legitimacy that would strengthen their position. The Talmud interprets lo techanem in three ways: (1) do not give them free gifts, (2) do not praise them with flattering words, and (3) do not allow them to find permanent dwelling in Eretz Yisrael. Rambam codifies all three aspects, emphasizing that showing them favor risks legitimizing avodah zarah. Sefer HaChinuch underscores that giving undue favor creates attachment and admiration, which can lead Jews to imitate their practices. The mitzvah serves as a safeguard, ensuring Israel remains spiritually distinct and loyal to Hashem.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Sefer HaMitzvot, Lo Ta’aseh 50): Counts the prohibition of lo techanem as forbidding giving idolaters favor or permanence.
• Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 10:4): Details three applications — not to give idolaters gifts, not to praise them, and not to give them land in Eretz Yisrael.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 426): Explains that undue favor fosters friendship and imitation, drawing Jews toward avodah zarah.
• Talmud (Avodah Zarah 20a): Expounds lo techanem to mean: “Do not give them free gifts; do not say how beautiful is this idolater; and do not allow them a foothold in the Land.”
• Rashi (Deut. 7:2): Notes the word techanem means both “to give them land” and “to grant them favor,” encompassing gifts and flattery.
• Ramban (Deut. 7:2): Emphasizes the prohibition applies especially in Eretz Yisrael, as idolaters gaining favor there compromises Israel’s holiness.
• Midrash (Sifrei Devarim §45): Interprets lo techanem as prohibiting both physical permanence and verbal honor, for either legitimizes idolatry.

Contrast with…

• Mitzvah 56 (Not to Make a Covenant with Idolaters): That mitzvah prohibits formal treaties; Mitzvah 57 extends to everyday favors, land, and speech (Rambam, Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 10:1 vs. 10:4).
• Talmud (Avodah Zarah 20a): Contrasts covenant-making with subtle gestures of favor — both dangerous but distinct prohibitions.

Parallel to…

• Exodus 23:33: “They shall not dwell in your land, lest they cause you to sin against Me.” This verse parallels lo techanem by stressing the danger of idolaters gaining a foothold.
• Ezra 9:12: Ezra warns against alliances and favors to idolaters after the return from Babylon, echoing the Torah’s prohibition.
• Talmud (Avot 1:7): “Distance yourself from a bad neighbor.” The principle parallels lo techanem, as granting favor can turn destructive proximity into assimilation.