Free To Choose

"I have hardened his (Pharaoh's) heart in order to execute My miracles within him." Exodus 10:1

Many people raise the question: If Yahveh rendered Pharaoh unable to learn from experience, why did He then punish him for refusing to release the Israelites?

The answer lies in an understanding of free will. Many believe that circumstances can so affect people that they have no freedom of choice but the Torah rejects this idea. While circumstances may impact upon a person, no one is ever deprived of freedom of choice. We are always responsible for our actions.

The about-to-be-liberated Israelites were told that Yahveh will indeed harden Pharaoh's heart and put great pressure upon him, but that will not deprive him of freedom of choice and he will be held responsible for his behavior. In preparation for their liberation and ultimate acceptance of the Torah, Israel must always remember that they too will be responsible for their actions.

You have free will. Whatever your circumstances may be, you will always retain freedom of choice to do good or evil.



Hope Of Israel Websites:

Torah Studies:
http://rinahshal.tripod.com/

Times of Refreshing:
http://rinah--shalom.tripod.com/

Wisdom For Living:
http://rinahshal.tripod.com/wisdomforliving

Step By Step:
http://rinah--shalom.tripod.com/stepbystep/

Moadim - Jewish Holidays:
http://rinah-shalom.tripod.com/