Are Humans Naturally Inclined Towards Virtue? (Rufus - Lectures 2:7:1-2)

The Stoic Jew

Synopsis: Rufus taught “The human being is born with an inclination toward virtue.” Would Judaism agree? In today’s episode we take a look at the Sforno’s revolutionary interpretation of a familiar statement from Chazal (which was already preempted by the Rambam), which sheds a new light on how Hashem helps us in the battle against the yetzer ha’ra on a daily basis.

This week's Torah content has been sponsored anonymously for the continued recovery of Rabbi Moskowitz. May Hashem grant Ha'Rav Meir ben Esther Malka a refuah shleimah.

Related Rabbi Schneeweiss Content:
- The Saga of Kayin (Part 4)

Sources:
- Rufus, Lectures 2:7:1-2
- Talmud Bavli, Sukkah 52a-b
- Sforno on Bereishis 4:7
- Rambam: Mishneh Torah, Sefer ha’Mada, Hilchos Teshuvah 6:5
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