Torah Study > Chapter 6: Truth and Peace > Text 2

Look closely at the three parts of this verse. What do you think each
part means? How are they related?

Why do you think the “rebuke” commandment is embedded between
two verses that speak of caring? What is the relationship between not
hating your neighbor, rebuking them, and loving them as yourself?

Maimonides explains this verse the following way “Anyone who has
the ability to intervene [and prevent a person from sinning] but does
not, is held responsible for those sins.” (Mishneh Torah, Laws of
Character Traits 6:7)

Consider the implications of taking responsibility for the “sins”
(unethical behavior) of everyone you know. Is it realistic? If not, what
could be the purpose of this teaching?

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Given the “live and let live” ethic of America today, how comfortable
are you listening to or adopting this value of rebuking—hocheach
tocheach?

How would you rewrite these verses to make them more understandat
able, more palatable and more convincing to the modern reader?

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