Pisqa’ 223¹

1

“But if your brother does not live near you” (Dt.22:2)—

I might infer only that the rule applies

if he does not live nearby.

How do I know that

it surely applies if he lives far away?

The Teaching states:

“And you don’t know him well” (Dt.22:2)—

[as a result of the distance between you].

2

“Then you shall gather it into your household” (Dt.22:2)—

but not into another household,

[expecting its residents to care for it].

“Where it shall remain with you until your brother inquires after it” (Dt.22:2).

Now can you possibly imagine that

you would return it to him

before he specified its markings?

If so, why is it stated:

“Until your brother inquires after it” (Dt.22:2)—

[that is, even without specifying its markings.

 

[You needn’t return the animal]

until you inquire [and confirm] that

your brother is not a cheat. ²

“And then return it to him” (Dt.22:2)—

[Furthermore,] if [your brother] himself is lost,

you should guide him home.³

1. H:234; JN2:132.
2. = M. BM. 2:7
3. //T.BM.2:28.