Guiding the Intellect

The “Duties of the Heart,” was written by Rabbeinu Bachye, around the year, 1100. It is clear from his writings that he was influenced by Greek philosophy.

We see an example of this when he addresses the power of the intellect. He makes subtle implications of the flaws of Greek philosophy.

Unlike the Greeks who believed that one’s intellect is potentially so strong, that through it, one will attain truth, Rabbeinu Bachye had a different idea. He felt that the intellect alone could be tainted by an individual’s own human failings.

It will be difficult for a person to come to true morality, when he is unable to control his own personal drives and desires. One’s intellect cannot protect him from the very real human trait of rationalizing. He might even justify passing laws that may not be morally sound.

The only real way to tap into the powers of the intellect, is to combine one’s search for truth with the study of Torah. Human beings must have boundaries, for without them, almost anything could be justified.

This is the problem of democracy. The majority may rule, but there is no guarantee that they will rule in a highly moral fashion. This is where the Torah comes in, and this demonstrates the great contribution the Bible has to humanity. Human weaknesses are very real, and they can only be overcome by allowing Hashem to guide us in His holy Torah.

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Influence of Greek Culture