Daf Yomi One Week at a Time: Sanhedrin

As we begin Masechet Sanhedrin, we will learn how many judges are needed for every type of court case. Monetary cases need 3 judges, and capital cases need 23 judges. We will also learn about the Great Sanhedrin which was comprised of 71 judges.

This week, we will learn that we need three judges to extend a month or make a leap year. We will also learn the reasons for making a year a leap year. The Gemara teaches that 3 judges are needed to give ordination (semicha) to a Rabbi.

This week, we will learn about the Great Sanhedrin, which consisted of 71 elders. We will also learn specific laws that apply to the High Priest and a King. We will learn the entire second chapter of Masechet Sanhedrin this week.

This week we will learn how courts of 3 judges are set up. We will also learn that each litigant has the right to disqualify the other’s judge or witnesses.  The Gemara also teaches which people are disqualified to be judges and witnesses.

This week we will learn when a litigant can bring evidence to overturn the verdict. The Gemara teaches 10 differences between a monetary case and a capital case.

This week we will finish the fourth chapter and learn the entire fifth chapter of Masechet Sanhedrin. We will learn how a court of 23 judges capital cases. We will also learn how the court questioned witnesses with 2 types of questions.

This week the Gemara describes the process of stoning a person. The person is pushed off a structure by one of the witnesses that convicted him. If he doesn’t die from the fall, the second witness throws a heavy stone off the structure.  The body is hanged for a moment and then buried right away.

This week we will continue learning about the other 3 types of capital punishment that the Sanhedrin was able to carry out. The Gemara teaches which sins were punished by which type of death. Each death was carried out as mercifully as possible.

This week we will learn about the prohibition of Idolatry, what actions are prohibited and what punishment one gets if he transgresses. We will learn the different types of worship for different pagan gods.

This week will begin learning about the rebellious son. We will learn what makes him rebellious and why he is punished even though he is a minor.

This week we will discuss various cases of self-defense, capital punishment, and rebellious behavior. THe Gemara explores the concept of rodef (a pursuer), allowing lethal force to stop someone attempting murder or severe harm, and the laws regarding a ben sorer u’moreh (rebellious son), whose extreme disobedience and gluttony are seen as indicators of a dangerous future.

This week we will discuss the distinctions between intentional and unintentional murder, cases of indirect killing, and the requirements for execution. We will explore specific transgressions warranting the death penalty, such as striking or cursing a parent, the rebellious son (ben sorer u’moreh), and certain sexual offenses, detailing the conditions under which punishment applies. The Gemara also examines the methods of execution, the role of the court, and broader principles of justice in Torah law.

This week we will discuss the rebellious elder (zaken mamre), parental dishonor, and the authority of the High Court. The Gemara examines judicial power, witness credibility, and those who lose their share in the World to Come. We will also explore the topics of resurrection, national revival through Ezekiel’s dry bones, and debates on the afterlife.

This week we will discuss the Messianic era, the resurrection of the dead, and the rewards for the righteous. The Gemara describes the unique qualities of the Messiah, debates who will merit resurrection, and emphasizes the importance of Torah study and good deeds. The section also explores the nature of ultimate redemption, contrasting those who prepare for the future world with those who neglect spiritual growth.

This week we will discuss various aggadic and halachic topics, including the dangers of scoffing at Torah, the fate of different biblical figures in the World to Come, and stories about the downfall of wicked individuals like Nebuchadnezzar and Bilaam. The Gemara explores the tension between divine justice and mercy, illustrating how even great scholars can be led astray by arrogance or improper influence. The section also includes vivid narratives about the power of repentance, the consequences of sin, and the ultimate redemption of Israel.

This week we will begin with discussions about King David’s sin with Batsheva and the consequences of his actions, followed by reflections on repentance and divine justice. The later pages focus on the downfall of the wicked kings of Israel and the rebellion of Korach, culminating in a broader conversation about false prophets, rebellious cities, and how the Torah guides dealing with internal threats to the spiritual and moral fabric of the nation.

Kol Hakavod for finishing Masechet Sanhedrin!