Noach 5786 - Taxes are so Good

There are lots of things in this world which are good and lots which are bad. Some are painful but necessary for a greater good. 

Where do Taxes fall on this spectrum?

The Torah commands all of humanity with seven universal Mitzvos. The שבעה מצות של בני נח are the basic framework of morality which the Torah demands from all human being.

The Gemoro (Sanhedrin 56a) lists the seven Mitzvos, the first of which is דינין – laws. The Gemoro elaborates (ibid 56b) that the same way Jews must establish judges and courts in every town and city, so too gentiles must establish judges and courts in every town and city. 

There is a debate as to the purpose of these judges and subsequently the parameters of the Mitzva of דינין. The Rambam (Melachim 9:14) says that the judges are there only to judge the other six Mitzvos. The Ramban (Bereishis 34:13) expands the role of the Judges to have jurisdiction over all monetary matters. Anything from theft, to land law, to employment disputes are in the purview of these judges.

The Ramban views having a civilized society of property rights and civil laws as a basic universal human need. As the Mishna (Avos 3:2) teaches us, pray for the peace of the government, for without the fear of them people would swallow each other alive.

Rav Bartenura explains that the rule of nature is that the big takes advantage of the weak, the strong crush the poor. The Tiferes Yisrael notes the word “swallow” has the connotation of the abuser being uninhibited. Without fear of repercussions a criminal doesn’t have to chew over his decision, he can simply “swallow” the little man.

Where do Taxes fall in?

Putting aside the inbuild inevitability of any government’s propensity towards waste and corruption. The Torah does in principle believe in law and order. All humans are obligated to put together systems which ensure society functions and the vulnerable are looked after. Taxation to some level is a vital part of any such system.

This approach most certainly isn’t a justification or support for any specific tax policy. These have always been subject to be major debate until this day in every country. Where should the burden fall? How much should we invest in to law and order? What other services should be publicly funded? For sure you’ll have two Jews and three opinions on any of the specifics.

For any swallowing related or other financial issues you require assistance with please reach out at [email protected].

Good Shabbos.