The Theology of Consequence - Parshat Behar-Bechukotai 5787

The Theology of Consequence - Parshat Behar-Bechukotai 5787

From Ancient Lessons for a Modern Life with Adam Teitelbaum by Adam Teitelbaum

May 8, 2026 · 5 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the blessings and curses in Parshat Behar-Bechukotai and challenges the perception of G-d as vindictive.

This week's parsha, Behar-Bechukotai, is filled with blessings and curses from G-d to the Israelites. If you follow my commandments, you will have abundant blessings; if you stray, I will rain curses upon you. To many readers this is a case-in-point that G-d is vindictive, punitive, judgmental, and that everything in Jewish practice is generated via ultimatum. Stay with me here, I’m not the only one who disagrees with this assessment.

People in this episode

Host: Adam Teitelbaum

Topics covered

  • theology
  • consequences
  • blessings
  • curses
  • Jewish practice
  • commandments

Keywords

  • theology
  • consequences
  • blessings
  • curses
  • Jewish practice
  • commandments
  • Parshat Behar-Bechukotai

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Parshat Behar-Bechukotai

Places: Israelites

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