Torah Study > Chapter 5: Self and Community > Text 2
Why do you think Judaism builds this hierarchy of obligation to a
community?
What does the text assume happens the longer one stays in a
community?
Jewish tradition is a legal tradition and, as such, we often find that abstract
concepts (in this case, the nature of responsibility of the individual to the
community) is expressed in very tangible terms. This formula by which a
person’s responsibility expands over time into a variety of settings reflects
the assumption that a person’s involvement in his community should grow
over time to encompass many aspects of that society. It also recognizes
that we don’t feel responsibility to a new place of residence immediately.
It grows over time as we get to know it. The responsibility starts after only
thirty days.
The text clearly suggests obligation; Judaism does not provide a choice
about whether to give. The assumption is that we owe a debt to the commmunity
in which we live, and if everyone behaves in this way it would create
a healthy society in which no one is more responsible than anyone else.
It becomes clear then that, while Judaism honors free will, it does not
shrink from mandating a tax that supports the common good. In another,
related text, we learn that “Greater is the one who is commanded and
does, than one who is not commanded and does” (Babylonian Talmud,
Bava Kama 87a).
To the American mind this is an odd, if not a backward sentiment.
According to American values, an act freely performed is considered more
valuable than an act performed when required. A freely-willed act is
considered the best kind of gift. This seems intuitive to the American mind
and makes sense in a value system that honors personal autonomy. Not
so in the Jewish value system that puts a greater emphasis on communal
responsibility.
Ask participants to consider both positions. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of each, for the individual and the wider community?
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How do you feel about organizations or clubs that require you to do
or give something as a condition of membership? Compare it to other
groups that make no demands of you. Which situation leads you to a
greater sense of loyalty? of obligation? of fulfillment?
How do you feel about being required to do something even though
it might be the right thing to do?
Consider the trend to require community service for high school
graduation. Are such policies good for the individuals affected?
For society at large?
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