Prison Reform

The Torah lists many forms of punishment, from fines to lashes to the death penalty, but never mentions imprisonment. The purpose of existence is to make a dwelling for Hashem in this world by using our Divinely given strengths and talents in His service. With other punishments, the offender pays the penalty, is cleansed of his sin and is restored to freedom to continue a productive life. A prisoner is denied the freedom to fulfill his Divine mission and so his reason for living. The death penalty, if the Torah requires it, is the only atonement the offender can have, but to let a person live and still deprive him of life is inhumane.