The 256th prohibition is that we are forbidden from mistreating1 orphans2 and widows.
The source of this commandment is G‑d's statement (exalted be He),3 "Do not mistreat a widow or an orphan."
This prohibition includes treating them harshly by one's words or actions. Rather, one should speak with them with very soft and pleasant words; do business with them in the best possible manner; treat them in the nicest way — and to do so to the extreme. One who is not careful to act in this manner has transgressed this prohibition.
The Al‑mighty (exalted be He) already explained and guaranteed4 the punishment for one who transgresses this prohibition, in His statement (exalted be He),5 "I will display My anger and kill you."
