The Book of Memories

Man, God, And Judges

Rabbi Shnayor Burton and Mikey Stone

Many of the Torah's laws, and a large portion of traditional Torah study, concern the domain of what appears to be civil law. What explains the emphasis on what at first glance is a secular area of law, an area that appears to have parallels among the laws of other nations? Stated differently, what exactly is a divine civil law, and what is its purpose? This week we analyze this question, and in turn speculate about the relationship between Godly and human thought, the importance of escorting one's guests, and much more. 

Sources:
Genesis 19
Mishneh Torah: Laws of Mourning 14:2
Derashos Haran: Derash 11
Tosfos on Avodah Zarah 10b