Mishneh Torah, Repentance 10

Hook

Ever wonder why we do good deeds? For reward? To avoid trouble? Let's explore our deepest motivations with an ancient Jewish text.

Context

Here’s the scoop on our text:

• Who: Maimonides (Rambam), a super famous Jewish thinker.
• When: About 800 years ago, in medieval Egypt.
• Where: His epic law code, the Mishneh Torah.
• Key Term: Mitzvot – Jewish commandments or good deeds.

Text Snapshot

Maimonides writes: "A person should not say: 'I will fulfill the mitzvot... in order to receive all the blessings... or to merit the life of the world to come.'" ... "One who serves [God] out of love occupies himself in the Torah and the mitzvot... for no ulterior motive: not because of fear... nor in order to acquire benefit. Rather, he does what is true because it is true..." (Mishneh Torah, Repentance 10:1-2) [https://www.sefaria.org/Mishneh_Torah%2C_Repentance_10]

Close Reading

Insight 1: Why Bother?

It's natural to do things for a reason (like chores for dessert!). Maimonides says these "reward or punishment" motivations are okay for starters, especially for kids!

Insight 2: The Higher Calling

But there's a deeper level: doing good simply because it's good, because it's true, because you love the idea. Like helping a friend just because you care, not for a thank you.

Insight 3: Growth Mindset

Don't worry if you're not at the "love" level yet. Maimonides reassures us: serving God for reward can lead to serving out of pure love. It's a journey!

Apply It

This week, pick one small mitzvah (like being extra kind) and try to do it just because it feels right. No praise or outcome needed, just for its own sake!

Chevruta Mini

1. What's a time you did something truly good with no expectation of reward? How did it feel?
2. Do you think it's easier or harder to do things "just because it's true" in today's world?

Takeaway

Our journey with mitzvot can start with rewards, but eventually, we aim for the pure joy of doing good out of love.