nature of human beings

• Although humans are made from dust of the earth, everyone has the "breath of God" making them unique and special.
• Dual nature, both physical and spiritual simultaneously
• However, humans are also prone to sin, evil inclination (yetzer hara) Creates selfishness and exists in everyone.
• Also have a good inclination (Yetzer Hatov) that encourages all human beings to follow God's commandments and do good. More active as a person matures, and serves as a moral compass.
• Life is a constant struggle between hara and hatov.
• Judaism great emphasis on the concept of free will, as it is believed that humans can choose between good and evil, and that their actions have consequences. To live a moral and ethical life, individuals must use their intellect and choose to follow God's commandments.
• Judaism teaches that while yetzer hara and yetzer hatov are natural part of human beings, it is up to each individual to choose which inclination to follow.
• The yetzer hara is seen as a challenge to be overcome, and through the practice of mitzvot, Torah study and prayer, individuals can strengthen their yetzer hatov and weaken their yetzer hara.
• • Belief in dual nature reminds Jewish people that everyone has the potential for good and evil within them, and that it is up to each individual to cultivate the good and resist the bad.
• • Belief in the two inclinations can make Jewish people more aware of their moral choices and their potential consequences. By recognising the existence of both good and evil inclinations within themselves, Jewish people may be more likely to reflect on their actions and choose the right path.
• Jewish people would be careful to avoid actions which reflect yetzer hara. For example, gossiping, lying
• ANALYSIS

  • Some may feel that the idea of humans having an inherent inclination towards evil places too much emphasis on negativity and can lead to a pessimistic outlook on life.
• ANALYSIS

  • The concept of yetzer hara can be seen as a form of original sin, (that people are born with sin) which is a negative and disempowering idea. It makes it look like humans are set up to fail.
• ANALYSIS

  • The emphasis on the struggle between good and evil can lead to feelings of guilt and shame for individuals who may feel that they are not living up to their potential for goodness.
• ANALYSIS

  • The idea of and yetzer hatov keeping yetzer hara in check is too simple – human beings are much more complex in nature.