Q&A: Doing the truth because it is true
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Doing the truth because it is true
Question
Hello Rabbi,
What obligates me in the divine command? Seemingly, the only reason I have to keep the commandments is an interest in repairing the world and in reward and punishment. What besides that interest obligates me?
Thank you very much.
Answer
See the end of the fifth booklet on the site. In general, an interest does not obligate anything. Acting out of obligation is the opposite of acting out of self-interest.
Behind every feeling of obligation there is always fear or awe of something. That something can be various things: fear of the consequences of social ostracism (social pressure), fear of death, fear of hell, and so on and so on.
If you don't have that, then you won't be able to feel obligation.