Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 27:25 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 27:25 states that anyone who takes a bribe to kill an innocent person is cursed, and the people must respond 'Amen.' This verse emphasizes the severe prohibition against corruption and unjust killing in Jewish law. Rashi explains that this curse applies to judges or leaders who abuse their power for personal gain, highlighting the Torah's strict stance on justice and integrity.
Q: Why is taking a bribe to harm an innocent person considered so severe?
A: Taking a bribe to harm an innocent person is considered one of the gravest sins because it corrupts justice, which is a foundational principle in Judaism. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 23:1) teaches that a judge who accepts a bribe distorts the truth, leading to potential loss of life. The Torah places immense value on human life (Pikuach Nefesh) and fairness, making this act worthy of a curse.
Q: Why do the people respond 'Amen' to this curse?
A: The response 'Amen' signifies the community's collective agreement and acceptance of the curse. The Talmud (Shevuot 29a) explains that saying 'Amen' is like taking an oath—it binds the people to uphold justice and reject corruption. By responding, the nation affirms their commitment to these moral principles.
Q: How does this verse apply today?
A: This verse remains relevant today as a warning against corruption, dishonesty, and abuse of power. Jewish law (Halacha) strictly forbids bribery and unjust rulings, whether in courts, business, or leadership. The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 429) teaches that fairness and integrity are timeless obligations for every Jew.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 27:25?
A: We learn the importance of justice, honesty, and protecting innocent lives. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 27:25) stresses that society must actively oppose corruption. This verse reminds us that true righteousness requires standing against wrongdoing, even when it is tempting to remain silent or benefit from injustice.
The Severity of Taking Bribes in Judgment
The verse (Devarim 27:25) pronounces a curse upon one who accepts a bribe to condemn an innocent person to death. Rashi explains that this prohibition extends beyond capital cases—any judge who takes a bribe to pervert justice, even in monetary matters, violates this principle. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 23:1) emphasizes that accepting any form of benefit from litigants corrupts judgment, as the Torah states, "for bribery blinds the eyes of the wise" (Devarim 16:19).
The Public Affirmation of "Amen"
The phrase "And all the people shall say, Amen" demonstrates the communal responsibility to uphold justice. The Talmud (Shevuot 29a) teaches that responding "Amen" constitutes a binding oath, indicating the entire nation's collective commitment to this ethical standard. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 299) adds that this public declaration reinforces the severity of the transgression, as it implicates society in maintaining judicial integrity.
Three Levels of Prohibition in This Verse
The Broader Ethical Implication
The Kli Yakar notes that this curse applies not only to judges but to anyone who uses influence or wealth to manipulate justice. The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) expands this to include indirect bribery—such as showing favor to those who flatter or assist the judge—as any external influence distorts objective truth, which is the foundation of Torah law.