Manifold Punishment/2
Taking Double for Her Sins
Exegetical Approaches
Punished More than Deserved
Sometimes, people are punished more severely than their sins call for. This position subdivides in how it explains why this is justified:
Natural Order
Since this world is run via natural order, it is possible that the people might receive more than their proper share of retribution.
Vicarious Punishment of Children
Hashem's system of justice allows for the vicarious (or collective) punishment of children for their parent's sins, resulting in undue suffering of the descendant.
Punishment Less Harsh than Appears
The verse's description of the punishment is exaggerated, making it sound worse than it really is. As such, in reality, the nation did not suffer more than deserved.
Sin More Egregious than Appears
The sin for which the nation is punished is actually more severe than the verse makes it appear. As such, the harsh punishment described is justified.
