Judaism and Free Will
The Free Will Problem in Judaism
The idea that God controls the world, determining the trajectory and details of its history, is quite prevalent in Judaism. It is a notion that raises some serious theological questions.
Read moreTexts and Traditions
Divine Providence
Is God involved in the minute details of our lives?
Hardened Hearts
God stripping human beings of their free will.
The Free Will Problem: Early Solutions
Biblical and rabbinic sources stress both divine determinism and human freedom.
Medieval Solutions
Reconciling God's knowledge of the future with human choice.
Free Will 101
For Judaism to make sense, humans must have free will.
Modern Insights
Modern Solutions
To an age-old problem.
Becoming Free
Insights from the philosopher Erich Fromm.
Psychological Determinism
Can we choose our way?
Psychotherapy and Teshuvah
Two processes rooted in the human ability to choose and to change.
Hasidism's Denial of Free Will
According to some Hasidic thinkers, human free will is an illusion; God causes all human actions.
Controversies
Early Solutions
Biblical and rabbinic sources stress both divine determinism and human freedom.
Medieval Solutions
Reconciling God's knowledge of the future with human choice.
Books
Freedom and Moral Responsibility: General and Jewish Perspective
Edited by Charles H. Manekin and Menachem M. Kellner
Quiz Yourself
How much do you know about the free will debate in Judaism?