[Buckeye McFrog]

I have heard a very interesting talk by a Rabbi explaining how words like “adolescence” and “retirement” do not exist in Hebrew. And how the word for “face” is always plural.

I still don’t understand though how a first-century Jew like Jesus Christ would be concerned enough to relate that parable if they had no word for(and, I presume, no concept of) “fairness”.

[Zionist Conspirator]

I still don’t understand though how a first-century Jew like Jesus Christ would be concerned enough to relate that parable if they had no word for(and, I presume, no concept of) “fairness”.

Your obsession about the "first century" is causing you to completely miss the points Rabbi Lapin is trying to make.

Employer/employee relations, including wages, are governed by Torah Law. Perhaps that is the concept you are trying to find.

[chuckles]

It wasn't "fair" for Jesus to bear our sins on the cross, yet He did. Many feel it's not fair that "good" people go to Hell, but the measure of Righteousness we have is from Jesus, not our own. If you insist on your righteousness, you will end up in Hell no matter how much you give to charity or do other good works. Fairness plays no part in the judgement you receive, other than God is the ultimate fair judge.

If God wants you to work the vineyard, He decides your wages.

As a Christian, if I was saved at 8 years old and worked all my life for the Glory of God, why would I be upset that some criminal confessed Jesus right before he died and goes to Heaven? If my Father receives a larger Harvest, I rejoice for Him, for He the One to deserve the Glory. He earned it all on the cross.

[jjotto]

Hebrew uses the word “shilem” (same root as “shalom” peace, indicating completion) for “pay back”. So there is an analogous concept if it is not exact.