And you must not eat flesh of a mutilated animal in the field; throw it to the dogs (22:30)
The verse tells us that if there is a mutilated animal among the flock, it should be given to the dog. The Daas Zekeinim adds that the mauled animal was part of the flock that was actually being protected by the dog. Yet, despite this, the Torah is teaching us that although the dog was not successful in his guarding, nevertheless, it should still be given the carcass in appreciation for every time he was successful in the past, as well as for his efforts guarding the other members of the flock.
This is an incredible lesson to us. One would have thought that specifically now would not be the time to reward the dog — after all, the wolf was only able to snatch the sheep because the dog failed in his role. Yet, the Torah is teaching us not to focus on others’ mistakes when there are so many more successes to consider.
We can apply this message to so many areas in our life, especially in the relationships which matter most to us: our spouses, children, and friends. Everyone makes mistakes. Our role, when it comes to dealing with those around us is to at least put this mistake in the wider context of the entire relationship. If we do this, then the small error that might happen now and again is easily forgiven and quickly forgotten.
