WEEKDAY Law #w06: "If a Jew is imprisoned for theft, is it a mitzvah to try to get him released?"

If someone is arrested because of theft, either stealing from the government of from private parties, and people are thinking whether to get involved in the great mitzvah of Pidyon Shvuim/"Redeeming Captives", they need to know there is a debate amongst contemporary rabbinical authorities if Pidyon Shvuim actually applies in such a case [if clearly there is no question that he will come to phyical harm in his jail situation]. Some suggest that perhaps it is preferable not to bail out the thief so that his time in jail will act as a deterrent for him to not steal again in the future.

This is an important question that needs serious consideration, and one should discuss it with a qualified Rabbi on a case-by-case basis.

Copyright © 2016 Halacha2go, All rights reserved.

Please note that these laws apply in general situations. In unique circumstances, a different law may apply.

If you are unsure whether what you read here applies to your particular situation, please consult a rabbinic authority.

Back to Top          Back to One-Minute Laws Index