Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Numbers 5:6 mean?
A: Numbers 5:6 discusses the concept of someone committing a sin that involves betrayal or trespass against Hashem. The verse emphasizes that both men and women are equally accountable for their actions. According to Rashi, this refers to sins like stealing or swearing falsely, where a person denies their wrongdoing and thus 'trespasses' against Hashem by violating His commandments.
Q: Why is admitting guilt important in Judaism?
A: Admitting guilt is a crucial step in the process of teshuvah (repentance). The verse highlights that when a person commits a sin and becomes guilty, they must acknowledge their wrongdoing. The Rambam teaches in Hilchot Teshuvah that true repentance requires confession (vidui) and a commitment not to repeat the sin. Without admitting guilt, one cannot properly rectify their relationship with Hashem.
Q: What types of sins does Numbers 5:6 refer to?
A: The verse refers to sins that involve 'ma'al' (trespass or betrayal), particularly those where a person denies their wrongdoing. The Talmud (Sotah 32b) explains that this includes financial fraud, theft, or false oaths—sins where a person not only harms another but also violates their trust in Hashem by lying or covering up their actions.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us that all sins, especially those involving deceit or betrayal, damage our relationship with Hashem. Today, this teaches us the importance of honesty in business, speech, and personal conduct. The Chofetz Chaim emphasizes that avoiding falsehood and admitting mistakes are essential for spiritual growth and maintaining integrity in daily life.
Q: Does this verse imply that men and women have equal accountability in Jewish law?
A: Yes, the verse explicitly states 'a man or woman,' showing that both are equally responsible for their actions under Jewish law. The Talmud (Kiddushin 35a) discusses how certain commandments apply equally to men and women. This principle reinforces that spiritual accountability is not gender-dependent when it comes to ethical and moral obligations.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Numbers 5:6) discusses the concept of me'ilah (מַעַל), a trespass against Hashem, committed by an individual—whether man or woman—through certain sins. The Torah emphasizes that such actions create guilt (ashmah, אָשְׁמָה) that requires atonement.
Explanation of Me'ilah (Trespass)
Rashi explains that me'ilah refers to misusing or misappropriating sanctified property, such as Temple offerings or consecrated items, for personal benefit. The Rambam (Hilchot Me'ilah 1:1) elaborates that this applies to anything dedicated to the Beit HaMikdash, and using it improperly constitutes a betrayal of Hashem's holiness.
Inclusion of Both Men and Women
The verse specifies "אִישׁ אוֹ־אִשָּׁה" (a man or a woman), indicating that the laws of me'ilah apply equally to all. The Talmud (Kiddushin 35a) derives from this that women are generally included in negative commandments unless explicitly exempted.
The Nature of the Guilt (Ashmah)
The term ashmah (אָשְׁמָה) implies both guilt and liability. The Sforno explains that the soul becomes spiritually burdened until repentance and restitution are made. The verse underscores personal accountability—each individual must rectify their wrongdoing.
Connection to Repentance and Restitution
According to the Talmud (Yoma 36a), true repentance for me'ilah requires:
Broader Ethical Lesson
The Midrash (Bamidbar Rabbah 8:1) teaches that me'ilah extends beyond Temple property—any misuse of resources entrusted to us by Hashem (such as time, talents, or material blessings) constitutes a spiritual trespass. This verse thus serves as a reminder to sanctify all aspects of life in service of the Divine.