As Heard From Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

“For it is an abomination to Hashem your G-d all that do these.” (25:16)

Deceit in money matters, even if done by error such as by incorrect measuring vessels, is impossible of restitution because the sinner does not know how many persons he has wronged. “The punishment for (wrong) measures is worse than the punishment for incest.” (Baba Batra 88B) Not because incest is less serious. Although very severe penalties result from incest, yet with heavy penance and suffering it can be atoned.

But thievery can never be fully atoned unless full restitution is made to each victim, even if cheated for a penny. This is therefore an abomination.

Aside from the impossibility of full restitution, this verse states that “anyone that does injustice” to a fellow man is an abomination. To wrong your brother in money matters is thus extremely displeasing to Hashem. But, to wrong him with hurtful words is even worse (Baba Metzia 58B).

We see how very important is Repentance. Teshuba is not possible for a sin against a fellow man (whether deceit in money or hurtful words), unless he forgives you. However, an extremely heinous crime of Ervah/immorality requires only that Hashem should forgive. Therefore it is less fearsome than sins against our fellow man whose forgiveness is not always available.

Quoted from “Fortunate Nation” by Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

Shabbat Shalom

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