What does the Rambam teach about free choice (bechirah chofshis)?
What does the Rambam teach about free choice (bechirah chofshis)?
The Rambam teaches that free will is a fundamental principle, granted to all individuals to choose between good and evil [1], [2]. He emphasizes that a person's heart is not predetermined by God to commit good or evil, and that one can direct their heart towards any path they desire [3]. The Rambam also addresses verses in the Torah and prophetic words that might seem to contradict this principle, promising to explain this further [3].
Sources
- Mishneh Torah, Teshuvah 5 — Free will is granted to all men. If one desires to turn himself to the path of good and be righteous, the choice is his. Should he desire t…
- Rambam, Mishneh Torah, Laws of Repentance, Chapter 5 — Free will is granted to all men. If one desires to turn himself to the path of good and be righteous, the choice is his. Should he desire t…
- Mishneh Torah, Teshuvah 6 — There are many verses in the Torah and the words of the prophets which appear to contradict this fundamental principle. [Thus,] the majorit…
- Igrot Kodesh, Letter 439 — Free Will and Divine Knowledge — 22 Tevet* 5709 To our friend, the eminent scholar and chassid*, Rav* Yisrael Meir Altein [1], may he live, New York. Peace and blessing! In…
- Igrot Kodesh, Letter 9237 — [End of Marcheshvan* 5727] I reply to the questions you posed to me[1] in your letter, although my time does not permit me to develop the d…
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