Re: Learning from Christians

Beezeenc,

I think you bring a valid point to the table in terms of looking at similar circumstances through a Christian lens. However, speaking just on behalf of Negiah in relation to Christian ideals of sinning, I would say you carve an interesting point. Moreover, the real question is do we let these standards of living dictate our lives? If so, like you and Max, previously said in so many words, all you will get is a life of replicating sin. Anotherwords, why live to such standards if you can not be true to them? Why be that hypocrite? Also it is interesting to note that you say "truth is if we are successful at living up to our own standards than our standards probably are not worth a whole bunch." This is true to an extent I believe, but you must realize that there are some who actually do attempt at lives of righteousness - Judaism teaches that amidst our short comings, we can always know that Gd will recognize our efforts towards becoming pure in His image. Christianity, on the other hand, is quick to condone all sinful nature even amidst righteous attempts of coming more pure. How must one gradually become more righteous without first recognizing the small steps made towards this goal? Think of it it terms of parenting. If a child does something that is good, you would want to praise them for that action, correct? This is done to ensure that if Johnny does the same actions that are good in the future he will know that he is doing right - positive reinforcement. This is how I view the relationship between the Creator and myself. But, with the relationship we have with the Creator and ourselves, positive reinforcement works in a more dynamic, and profound way. Take for example when you volunteer, or give clothes to charity, help an old lady cross the street. After you do these things, especially if its been a long time since you did something like this, how might you feel afterwards? That feeling of goodness inside, is Gd's reinforcement to us to do good, it also a valuable lesson in living with humility and humbleness, for we do not derive any monetary goods for doing such actions.

In conclusion, my point to you is in terms of Orthodox standards in Judaism, many are based upon rabbinical interpretation, and being that interpretations often change over time, it is really difficult to denote these as actual Jewish law. However, I am not a Karaite Jew, or Sadducee I believe in Jewish law, and the Oral teachings - but it is important to follow our lives in terms of what good the Jewish people did for others, rather than something so trivial as "am I going to hell for touching this girl?" As I said in my last post -
I believe the interpretation of Shomer Negiah is simply a
misguided concept that is widely believed to be apart of some Jewish
ritual and apologetical goobldygook. Sadly, the laws have nothing to do
with actually being a "good Jew," yet Orthodox frum and Chabbadnik
alike choose this interpretation, instead of whats true inside the
hearts. I could only hope the world of Orthodox
Judaism could be happy in themselves, instead of forcing themselves to
be content within the confines of religious ideologies.

All the best,

-M