177. “Do Not Be Gracious to Them”

Avodas Kochavim 10:4

Even when we may rent homes to idolators, we may not do so for use as a residence because they will bring idols into them. Deuteronomy 7:26 says, “Do not bring an abomination into your home.” One may rent them homes to use for storage.

It is forbidden to sell idolators produce that is still attached to the ground but one may do so after is has been detached, or even before on the condition that it will be detached, which he then must do. This is because Deuteronomy 7:2 – “Do not be gracious to them” – includes not allowing them to settle in the land. They have to be treated as temporary residents.

“Do not be gracious to them” also prohibits praising idolators – not their appearances and certainly not their deeds. Doing so will only cause people to get close to them and emulate their ways.

Not being gracious also prohibits giving them gifts. A gift may be given to a non-Jew who recognizes God; this is inferred from Deuteronomy 14:21, “You may give neveilah (an animal that dies without ritual slaughter) to the stranger in your gates so that he may eat it, or you can sell it to an idolator.”

Avodas Kochavim 10:5

We should provide for needy idolators along with needy Jews in order to promote peace. Similarly, one should not chastise idolators if they take the portions of leket, shichchah and pe'ah that are left for the poor. One may inquire as to their well-being, even on their holidays, in order to promote peace. One may not enter an idolator’s home on one of his holidays in order to wish him well. If one meets him in public on those days, he should greet him more quietly and somberly.