Q&A: Renewing Religious Values
Renewing Religious Values
Question
Hello Rabbi, today there is a phenomenon of introducing new values that do not really exist within the formal framework of Jewish law. It seems to me that this phenomenon begins with Rabbi Kook.
This is expressed mainly in the role of the State of Israel and its authority on the religious plane. Some claim that since it is the “beginning of redemption,” they grant it powers similar to those of the Sanhedrin. This is seen especially in attempts at religious coercion through legislation, even though we are not an authorized halakhic body for that. This also appears in relation to the IDF and the sanctification of the system, even at the price of keeping one’s head down in a way that could lead to prohibitions. Does the Rabbi think there is room to instill these values of the “army of God” and sanctifying the state because Rav Kook decided so, or is there no room for additional Torah-based authorities that did not previously exist?
Answer
What does “introducing” mean? If the intention is to introduce them into Jewish law, there is no place for that. Jewish law is what is derived from the sources of Jewish law and from reasoning. External values are not Jewish law, but that does not mean they have no standing. They are morally or logically binding.
As for the State of Israel, I have written my view in many places, and you can search the site and the articles. In particular regarding the sanctification of the governmental and military system.
Religious coercion is part of formal Jewish law. There is no need for any special authority for that. Every person is obligated to compel his fellow regarding the commandments. The position that says it is not proper to coerce today is the one that requires explanation, not the desire to coerce.