Mishneh Torah, Kings and Wars 10-12

Shalom! Let's dive into a little wisdom that's super relevant today.

Hook

Ever wonder if doing good deeds matters to God, no matter who you are or what your background is? Good news: Judaism says a resounding "yes!"

Context

• Who: Maimonides – a super-smart Jewish scholar from 800 years ago.
• When: He wrote his famous law code, the Mishneh Torah, around 1170 CE.
• What: Mitzvot – Divine commands or good deeds.
• Key idea: Noachide – a non-Jew who keeps universal laws.

Text Snapshot

Maimonides writes in his Mishneh Torah: "We should not prevent a Noachide who desires to perform one of the Torah's mitzvot... from doing so... If a Noachide who observes the seven mitzvot gives charity, we should accept it from him." And later: "Our Sages commanded us to visit the gentiles when ill, to bury their dead... and support their poor... for the sake of peace. Behold, Psalms 145:9 states: 'God is good to all and His mercies extend over all His works' and Proverbs 3:17 states: 'The Torah's ways are pleasant ways and all its paths are peace.'" (Mishneh Torah, Kings and Wars 10:10-12, https://www.sefaria.org/Mishneh_Torah%2C_Kings_and_Wars_10-12)

Close Reading

Insight 1: Good deeds are for everyone.

Judaism believes that anyone can do good deeds, and they absolutely count! You don't need a special title or status to make a positive impact.

Insight 2: Peace and kindness are core values.

The text emphasizes showing kindness to everyone "for the sake of peace." It reminds us that "God is good to all," and Torah's paths are peaceful ones.

Apply It

This week, find one tiny way to do a kindness for someone outside your usual circle. Maybe a friendly greeting, holding a door, or just a genuine smile.

Chevruta Mini

• What's one small act of kindness you’ve seen recently that made a difference?
• How does the idea of "God is good to all" resonate with you personally?

Takeaway

Good deeds, done by anyone, for anyone, help bring peace to the world.