The devastating news of the murder of six Israeli hostages held by Hamas has plunged so many into deep grief, and also highlighted disagreements about how to handle hostage situations. Is it ever appropriate to pay to ransom for captives who have been kidnapped by murderous assailants? Sadly, Jews have had reason to discuss this question for thousands of years. We'll learn some sources from throughout Jewish history about the mitzvah of pidyon sh'vuyim - redeeming captives - and its challenges.