English: “Cursed be one who strikes his fellow in secret” — this is one who strikes his fellow privately, so that there are no witnesses and the court cannot seize him.
In context: Like secret idolatry, private violence (or, in some readings, verbal “striking” through lashon hara) is singled out precisely because the ordinary mechanisms of justice cannot reach it. The national Amen creates a collective commitment against hidden harm.
Type of Learning
Custom (identification of a classic secret sin requiring public oath).
What Is Learned
Hidden physical or verbal harm to one’s fellow is placed under the same covenantal ban as secret idolatry.