How Judaism Defeats Deception

Did you ever wonder what the Torah says about deception?

In this week’s Torah portion of Ki Teizei, we see in Deuteronomy 25:13-15 that the Torah forbids merchants from placing inaccurate weights on a scale to overcharge customers.

Even today, stores are regularly required to have their electronic scales certified to ensure they are accurate.

The Torah considers misleading to be a serious transgression. According to our sages, this includes telling someone “Yes” when you really mean “No.”

How much more serious is it when missionaries deliberately distort and mistranslate biblical and rabbinic texts to mislead and coerce some to change their faith.

Such deception is a serious and unethical offense.

While we may not be able to change the behavior of individuals who act deceptively, there is a well-known Latin expression: “Caveat Emptor” which means “Let the buyer beware.”

Whether it applies to a product or a philosophy, it is essential to apply this principle and always seek a second opinion and make an informed choice. This is the very core of critical thinking, As King Soloman teaches in Proverbs 18:17, “The first to bring an argument sounds right, until someone cross examines him.”

This wisdom is especially critical today when our youth are confronted by many misleading claims and criticisms directed at Israel and Judaism.

Let’s spread the word.

I wish you a wonderful and holy Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz

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