An official in our synagogue embezzled a large sum of money...Question:
A high administrative official in our synagogue swindled a great sum of money from congregational offerings. He is well versed in Torah and certainly knows the difference between right and wrong. What would be the proper application of Torah in this situation?
Answer:
I'll answer with a story.
Rabbi Chaim of Sanz (Polish chassidic master, 1793-1876) once sought an honest man in the marketplace. First he stopped Yossel and asked, "Yossel! If you found a wallet on the street, what would you do?"
"Of course, I would return it to its owner!" replied Yossel.
"Yossel, you are a fool!" exclaimed the rabbi. "Now stay here."
And the rabbi called over another man.
"Feivel, if you found a wallet on the street, what would you do?"
"Rabbi, you know me," answered Feivel. "I would probably keep it for myself. I need the money badly, and I'm not such a good Jew."
"Feivel, you must repent! In the |