Friday, June 19, 2009

Bava Metzia 56 - Things not Subject to Price Fraud (Finds)

These things are not subject to price fraud: the sale of slaves, notes of indebtedness, land, and Temple property. Furthermore, the twofold payment for stealing does not apply to them, nor does the penalty of fourfold or fivefold payment apply.
Suppose any of these items were entrusted to an unpaid custodian who claims the property was stolen. In that case, he is absolved from responsibility without having to swear that he was not negligent.

The verse discussing price fraud states, "...and if you sell something to our fellow, or buy from the hand of your fellow..." indicating things being passed from hand to hand, not fields or other items above.

Art: Clasped Hands of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning by Harriet Goodhue Hosmer





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