19. Identifying Features (Siman) (Part 2)

Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchot Bein Adam L’Chaveiro

1.   There are other features of an object that can serve as an identifying siman in addition to the one mentioned in the previous post. First, the number of pieces found is a valid siman (Shulchan Aruch, C.M.  262:3). For example, finding a keychain with seven keys would constitute a siman. However, a package with a standard amount, such as a package of ten pens, would not constitute a siman since it is not unique to this item (Bava Metzia 23b).

2.   A unique feature of the container or wrapper in which the item is found can also constitute a valid siman (Shulchan Aruch, C.M. 262:19-20). For instance, an envelope containing money with a special marking on it would constitute a siman even though the money itself does not have one. The specific location found also constitutes a siman. Thus, the owner can say that he or she left the item on a specific bench in the park or at a specific desk in school.