Q&A: Collective Meaning
Collective Meaning
Question
Hello and blessings,
I am trying to understand the significance of observing the commandments outside a Jewish-social framework.
It is clear to me that the obligation to observe the commandments is objective and stems from the normative truth of the divine command,
but it seems to me that the reason for the commandment—that is, the purpose or meaning of its observance—is fully realized only within a Jewish society in which the public context of Jewish law is created.
In the Rabbi’s view, does a commandment have “full” value even when it is observed in solitude,
or should one say that although the obligation always exists, the reason for the commandment (and its purpose) is realized only in a social space in which the entire halakhic system is built?
Thank you very much in advance for the clarification.
Answer
I have no idea
I wasn’t expecting an answer like that.
Thanks anyway.