For the source text click/tap here: Sotah 9
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Much of our daf is a continuation of comparisons. The sota is thought to go through each step of her rituals because it directly correlates with an aspect of her alleged transgression. The rabbis share multiple comparisons in other circumstances. A new Mishna teaches us about many who were rewarded or punished for their acts in kind:
· Samson lusted after what he saw; later, his eyes were gouged out.
· Absalom:
o was proud of his hair; later was hanged by his hair.
o had intercourse with ten of his father's concubines; later ten of Joab's soldiers smote him.
o stole the hearts of his father, the court, the Jewish people; later, Joab stabbed his heart with three spears.
· Miriam waited for Moses at the water for one hour; later, the people waited seven days to mourn her death.
· Joseph alone merited burying his father; Moses himself helped to transport Joseph's coffin.
We continue our exploration of the ancient ritual with modern day commentators.