18Forty Podcast A Debate Between Yitzchak Blau & Itamar Rosensweig: Does Morality Exist Outside of Judaism?
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Jun 24, 2025 Rabbi Yitzchak Blau, author of Fresh Fruit & Vintage Wine, and Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig, a professor of Jewish law, engage in a thought-provoking debate about the existence of morality outside of Judaism. They discuss the definitions of goodness, the relationship between halacha and moral education, and whether moral values stem from divine commands. The conversation tackles contemporary issues such as compassion, fairness, and evolving interpretations of Jewish law, urging a reevaluation of how ethics and rituals intersect within the community.
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Independent Morality's Traditional Support
- Rabbi Yitzchak Blau argues that genuine moral obligations exist independently of Torah and Judaism, citing traditional Jewish sources and philosophical reasoning.
- He believes such independent morality helps explain God's goodness and prevents manipulation of halacha to justify unethical behavior.
Morality Depends on Torah and God
- Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig argues morality cannot exist independent of God, as otherwise God would be morally flawed.
- He claims Judaism monopolizes moral value, so genuine moral obligations must align with Torah's commands.
Promote Integrity in Community
- Rabbi Yitzchak Blau advises shifting communal discourse to identify being "from" with both halachic observance and moral character.
- He encourages prioritizing honesty, morality, and valuing morally noble professions beyond pragmatism.
