Expert: Ovadiah ben Avraham - 3/21/2006

Question
I have a movie out that we haven't watched yet. It is a 3 day rental and is due back today. The lender doesn't charge late fees. May I keep it and watch it tonight and return it tomorrow a day late?

Answer
John,
The fact that the lender does not charge interest (late fees) is indeed gracious on their part, but does not change your responsibilty to return the borrowed materials on time. "Thou shalt not steal" applies to a number of every day activities that we may not realize. Return the movie and re-check it out. Then you have dealt with integrity and within the confines of Torah Law. Shalom!