בס”ד
The Torah enumerates and defines many forms of punishment for sinners and offenders, from simple fines to lashes and even capital punishment. However, it nowhere suggests imprisonment as a form of punishment.This is because the purpose of existence is to establish a dwelling place for G-d in this world, which is achieved by using our individual G-d-given strengths and talents for the sake of His service. In all other forms of punishment (except capital punishment) , which, in cases prescribed by the Torah, is the only form of atonement the offender can have), the individual suffers a penalty, is cleansed of his sin, and is returned to freedom where he is expected to resume a productive life making this world a dwelling place for G-d. As a prisoner, however, one is denied the freedom to fulfill the Divine mission, that is, one is denied the reason for one’s own existence. Allowing a person to live and, to in turn, to take his life, is inhuman.
By Rabbi Tuvia Serber
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