Torah Study > Chapter 4: Tzedek, Tzedakah, & Chesed > Text 6
What do you understand by the concept “covenant?” Why do you
think it is important here?
Rabbi Sacks argues that tzedek and tzedakah are universal moral principles.
These concepts are for all humanity, and they can be applied to
strangers and friends alike. Underlying these principles is the idea that we
are all human beings created by God. In contrast, chesed is a concept that
applies to those with whom we have an emotional connection, those we
care for out of a more particular sense of obligation or connection.
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Do you agree with the distinction between morality and ethics that is
described here?
Do you agree with Rabbi Sacks’ assertion that justice can only
be administered without emotion and chesed only with emotion?
Are there any instances when this might not be true?
Do you feel that you have a covenantal connection to other Jews that
is different from the connection you have to nontJews? Do you feel
a greater responsibility to Jews than nontJews? If so, when and how
does this reflect itself in your life? If not, what would you say to Rabbi
Sacks?
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