Losing something is a terrible feeling, whether it holds monetary value or is purely sentimental. What makes it worse is that the outcome — whether or not it is returned — is out of our control. While luck plays a role, it largely depends on the finder. For this reason, being the person who comes across a lost object can be daunting in itself; taking on the responsibility of returning it involves time and effort, and some may be tempted to leave it for someone else to handle, or worse yet, keep it.
However, in Judaism, it is required that individuals make an effort to return lost objects to their rightful owner, a principle known as Hashavat Aveidah.
The Meaning of Hashavat Aveidah
The practice of Hashavat Aveidah, which translates to “returning lost property” is considered a mitzvah, or commandment, regardless of whether the rightful owner is a friend, stranger, or even an enemy.
This principle is rooted in the Torah, which states: “If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it.” (Exodus 23:4). Likewise, “If you see your brother’s ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it but be sure to take it back to him. If the brother does not live near you or if you do not know who he is, take it home with you and keep it until he comes looking for it. Then give it back to him. Do the same if you find your brother’s donkey or his cloak or anything he loses. Do not ignore it.” (Deuteronomy 22:1–3)
What Lost Objects Need to be Returned?
Hashavat Aveidah emphasizes the importance of returning property that can be identified, including that of inherent value, such as money or jewelry, as well as those that are crucial to daily life, like a wallet or medication. However, if items are unidentifiable and the owner cannot be located, they may be kept by the finder with the hope that they can eventually be reunited with their owner. The priority of returning items to their owner is lower when it comes to objects of minimal value (an errant glove or insignificant trinket) or items that were clearly abandoned.
Rabbi Meir Baal Haness and the Prayer for Lost Objects
Rabbi Meir Baal Haness is a respected leader in Jewish tradition, sometimes referred to as “The Master of Miracles” for his ability to perform acts of divine intervention. For this, many people recite what is known as the Baal Haness prayer when they need help finding a lost object. It is customary to give Tzedakah to a Jewish charity in conjunction with saying this prayer, as acts of charity are thought to increase the chances of divine assistance in recovering the lost item.
While Rabbi Meir Baal Haness is associated with lost items, his understanding of loss was much more expansive, including Jews’ connection to their heritage and faith. This tends to occur during times of upheaval, and the great Rabbi lived through the destruction of the Second Temple. Today, world Jewry once again finds itself facing immense challenge and fragmentation. Consider donating to one of the many Jewish nonprofit organizations or Israeli charities actively working to combat this, including Colel Chabad. You can easily order a free Pushka Box to collect contributions.
Returning Lost Property as a Form of Community Care
Community is a core tenet of Judaism, with an emphasis on mutual support and shared responsibility, concepts that have helped the Jewish community thrive throughout the years. Hashavat Aveidah is among the many principles encompassed by Chesed, or acts of loving kindness, which is one of the primary ethical virtues of Judaism. While practicing Hashavat Aveidah usually occurs by chance — there’s no guarantee of finding a lost object — donating to Jewish charitable organizations is an easy way to exercise community care and show compassion.
You can also volunteer your time with Jewish charities, and get involved with initiatives like Colel Chabad’s Project Gett Chesed, which aims to alleviate loneliness, especially among elders by providing them with everything from technology assistance and cooking to offering social interaction and a listening ear.
Show Compassion and Support Jewish Causes With Colel Chabad
When seeking the best Jewish organizations to donate to, look no further than Colel Chabad, which has over 200 years of experience helping those in need, and is considered by many to be the best Jewish charity for Israel. Our initiatives include:
Many of these efforts are directly supported by Jewish donations. Don’t wait — make an impact on those who need it most today.
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