Bava Kama 85 and 86 – The Quality of Mercy

Today’s Talmud pages, Bava Kama 85 and 86 follows a discussion where the question of what happens when someone receives a harsh punishment, and the decision must be made on how to dole out such a horrible punishment. This topic is very timely, as the State of Alabama is preparing to execute Kenneth Smith, after his conviction on the charges of murder. In response to his immanent death, religious leaders have reached out to the Governor of Alabama asking that the form of execution be changed from asphyxiation with nitrogen gas to a more humane manner. How can we balance the rule of law with a quality or mercy? Listen and find out.

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