How many proofs must a lender bring to collect from absent borrower's property?
The lender must prove: (1) the note's authenticity, (2) the borrower is in another city and cannot appear, and (3) the specific property belongs to the borrower. All three are required.
Question 2
What is the default loan term when no specific term is stated?
When no term is specified, the default loan term is 30 days — whether the loan is oral, written, or backed by collateral. The lender cannot demand payment before those 30 days elapse.
Question 3
If a lender says 'I lent you 1 sela against collateral worth only 2 dinarim' but the borrower says it was worth a sela — who takes the first oath?
The lender (as watchman/custodian of the collateral) must first swear that the item is no longer in his possession (guardian's oath). Then the borrower takes a shvuat hesset about the collateral's value.
Question 4
Can a lender demand payment of a fixed-term loan if the borrower dies before the due date?
Even if the borrower or lender dies, the fixed term of the loan remains intact. The lender may not demand early payment from the heirs.
Question 5
If a borrower tries to repay in the desert, what can the lender do?
The lender gave the money in a settled area. He may insist on receiving repayment in a settled area and decline payment in the desert. The money remains the borrower's responsibility until paid in a settlement.