A merchant uses a slightly inaccurate weight. Can a court compel him to repay each buyer the exact discrepancy?
Halacha 1-2: Although a person who measures with an inaccurate measure is considered a thief, he is not required to repay the exact discrepancy — there is no single, definable stolen amount the court can calculate.
Question 2
Is it permitted to keep an inaccurate weight in your home if you never use it for trade?
Halacha 2: Whoever possesses an imperfect measure or weight in his home or store violates a negative commandment, even if it is never used for commercial purposes.
Question 3
A sela coin is worn down so that it is barely recognizable. What must be done with it?
Halacha 4: If a sela was worn down until it is barely recognizable, it must be defaced so that it cannot be confused with valid currency and used deceptively.
Question 4
A seller measures land for one partner in summer and for another in winter. Why is this problematic?
Halacha 2 (land): One partner's portion was measured when the soil was compact (summer) and the other's when it expanded (winter), resulting in unequal treatment — a violation of honest dealing.
Question 5
Why does the Rambam say the punishment for false measures is greater than for licentious behavior?
Halacha 11: False measures harm many anonymous people, making it impossible to identify and compensate all victims — therefore repentance is nearly unachievable and the sin is treated with utmost severity.