Punitive System of the Torah

The Sha’arei Teshuva, “Gates of Repentance,” written by Rabbeinu Yonah, discusses the seriousness of the numerous sins mentioned in the Torah.

He begins with a description of the 207 negative commandments that are punishable by lashes. He then moves on to the next level of sins punishable with “Mitah Beydei Shamayim,” followed by “Karet,” excision, followed by the transgressions that are so severe that the death penalty is given.

Rabbeinu Yonah felt that מיתה בידי שמים cases were not as severe as the כרת cases. The reason being that in death by the Heavenly court, it is only the transgressor who is punished, while in Karet cases, the punishment can be given to one’s children.

The Karet cases are spelled out more clearly in the Torah. There are cases involving Karet connected to incestuous relations, eating Chametz on Pesach, and not fasting on Yom Kippur. For since such as these, the sinner may be cut off from this world, by passing away before his time.

The more severe form of Karet, where one loses his share of this world as well as Olam Haba, come from more severe sins. These include, idol worship, blasphemy, and one who belittles the Torah.

The מיתה בידי שמים cases are elaborated in the Mishna, Talmud, and Midrashim. Many of these cases involve sanctified items. For example, a Kohein who eats Teruma in a state of impurity, or eating Tevel, which is untithed grains, would get this punishment.

Rabbeinu Yonah also adds certain cruel behavior to the category of מיתה בידי שמים. Cruelty to the widow and orphan, or to the poor, would receive this punishment. He also adds to his list the Torah scholar who does not conduct himself in the proper manner. He misrepresents the Torah, and gives Judaism a bad name. This is very severe and could give him מיתה בידי שמים.

We are in a period of repentance, and it is a good idea to familiarize ourselves with the Torah’s laws. This knowledge will help us stay focused on doing what is necessary to return to Hashem.