Idolatry

In His greatness, G-d gives Mankind free-will to do many things, even to deny G-d's very existence.

We have a tradition that there was a lustful attraction to worship idols during early world history. This lasted through the fourth century BCE.

Although idolatry is expressly forbidden by G-d, within three generations Adam’s descendants rationalize that idolatry is noble because it provides a mechanism by which Man can better relate with G-d.

Corruption soon sets in and false prophets show up. Eventually most of Mankind abandons both G-d and their responsibility to obey His instructions for living.

Paganism takes hold and it turns G-d into a person. In contrast, Judaism teaches that man can become like G-d.

The Oral Torah (Mishna Avoda Zara 54b) records the following discussion between our Sages and the Roman nobility.

"If (your) G-d is against idolatry then why doesn't He destroy the idols?"

The Sages responded: "If people would worship only that which does not contribute to the functioning of the world then G-d would have eradicated them. However, since people worship the sun, moon, and stars, then why should G-d destroy his world because of fools?"

"So, why doesn't G-d only destroy the idols that the world doesn't need?"

The Sages answered, "If G-d did this then it could be misunderstood, because people would use this to validate the worship of those idols that the world needs to function."

In Loving Memory Of Our Father, Mr. Joseph Black (Yosef Ben Zelig) O"H In Loving Memory Of Our Mother, Mrs. Norma Black (Nechama Bas Tzvi Hirsh) O"H

© 1996- by Tzvi Black, JewishAmerica. All rights reserved.