Judaism Flashcards
Identify what Judaism says about the origin of evil?
Judaism generally sees evil as stemming from human free will which represents the tendency toward selfishness or immorality. In some interpretations, evil is not a force on its own but is allowed by God to give humans the ability to choose between good and evil, making moral choices meaningful.
What does Judaism teach about suffering?
Judaism teaches that the existence of evil and suffering in the world was a direct result of Adam and Eve disobeying God’s commandment in the Garden of Eden. Suffering is often seen as a test of faith or as a means of spiritual growth in Judaism. The story of Job is a key text that deals with the question of why righteous people suffer.
How do Jews respond to suffering?
Jewish teachings emphasize maintaining faith in God, community support, and resilience. Prayer and reflection, that include petitions for healing, to avoid suffering, and to have the strength to endure disaster when it inevitably occurs.
Outline Frankl’s position on suffering and evil in Man’s Search for Meaning.
Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, argues that suffering is an inherent part of life, but individuals can find meaning even in the most painful circumstances. In Man’s Search for Meaning, Frankl suggests that suffering is inevitable but can be transcended by finding purpose. This purpose can come from love, work, or even a mindset that sees suffering as a way to achieve personal growth. Frankl rejects nihilism and insists that even in the face of evil, people can choose how to respond.
Compare Frankl’s position on suffering and evil to the Jewish perspective.
Both Judaism and Frankl emphasize the importance of finding meaning in suffering. However, while Judaism often focuses on suffering as a test or a way to pay for sins, Frankl’s existential approach emphasizes the individual’s capacity to choose their response to suffering and to find personal meaning, regardless of religious context. Jewish thought tends to see suffering as part of the collective experience of the Jewish people, whereas Frankl’s work is more focused on the individual’s journey through suffering.
