Moral Principles and the mitzvot

Question 1

What is the nature of the mitzvot?

Answer 1

1. The commandments are stated very briefly and need explanation
2. According to Jewish tradition, this explanation was given to Moses to God in ‘Oral Torah’
3. Oral and written torah make up the halakah (Jewish law)

4.Mishneh Torah complied by Maimonides and is regarded as a major code of Jewish law.

Question 2

The mitzvot and free will

Answer 2

1. The mitzvot are commandments and are not optional.
2. Each Jew must decide whether or not to follow the mitzvot of their own free will.
3. God has created humans will free will

Question 3

Why are the mitzvot are important for understanding the relationship between God and humans?

Answer 3

1. Mitzvot should be understood at a much deeper level than simply keeping them.
2. Mitzvah means commandment but is close to the word for connection
3. By keeping them you communicate with God.

Question 4

What does chukim mean and why are they important?

Answer 4

Chukim are commandments with no reason and are designed is a test of faith

Question 5

What are the different views in Judaism about the mitzvot?

Answer 5

Orthodox view: They cover the entire life of a Jewish person. They are also believed to be coming directly from God

Liberal view: Not as important because they believe that the miztvot do not come directly from God so they are optional to keep

Question 6

SOWAAs

Answer 6

1. “God created man in his own image.”