Judaism & Solutions to Suffering (Edexcel GCSE Religious Studies B) : Revision Note

Theoretical solutions to the problem of suffering

• A theoretical response to the problem of suffering is an explanation that attempts to reconcile the existence of suffering with the belief in an all-powerful, all-good God

• In Judaism, there are many theoretical responses as to why suffering exists despite the belief that God is both loving and powerful

Free will

• Many Jews believe that suffering is a result of human free will

  • Genesis teaches that humans were given free will, which means they can choose actions that may lead to suffering

Test of faith

• Some Jews believe that suffering can be a test of faith

  • For example, the Book of Job shows how Job’s faith is tested through his suffering

  • The idea is that suffering might strengthen a person’s relationship with God and help them grow spiritually

God’s plan

• Some Jewish teachings suggest that suffering is part of God's plan, which humans cannot fully understand

  • In Isaiah 55:8-9, it says, ‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways’ 

  • This suggests that suffering may have a purpose, even if it is not immediately clear to people

Sin

• Some Jews believe that suffering can be a consequence of sin and that suffering might occur as a form of punishment or to encourage them to repent

  • The concept of Tshuva is central in Judaism, where individuals seek forgiveness and turn back to God

Practical solutions to the problem of suffering

• Judaism teaches that there are also practical ways in which Jews can respond to the problem of suffering

Helping others

• One practical response to suffering is helping others who are in pain or hardship

  • Judaism teaches the importance of Tzedakah and acts of kindness 

  • Helping others can bring comfort, reduce suffering, and create a sense of community and support

Prayer

• Jews believe that prayer can be a powerful way to cope with suffering

  • Prayers such as the Kaddish or personal prayers can bring comfort, offer strength, and help people connect with God during difficult times

Tackle poverty and inequality

• Judaism encourages people to work towards justice, fairness, and peace, addressing the root causes of suffering, such as poverty and inequality

  • This is central to the Jewish teaching of Tikkun Olam

  • This can be done through activism, social justice work, or supporting causes that improve society

• Jewish communities provide a strong support system for those who are suffering

  • The synagogue and other community spaces are places where individuals can find spiritual, emotional, and practical support during difficult times

Spiritual healing and rituals

• Jews might reflect upon their own actions and seek forgiveness from God

  • By turning back to God and seeking to live a better life, Jews believe they can find spiritual healing and peace, which may help them cope with suffering

• Rituals like Shiva provide structure and comfort during times of loss

  • Observing Shabbat or other Jewish festivals can bring joy and peace, offering a break from suffering and a reminder of the blessings in life

Different attitudes within Judaism to the theoretical solutions for the problem of suffering

• There are different responses to the proposed theoretical solutions to the problem of suffering in Judaism

• Many Jews accept that suffering is a result of human free will, others may struggle with the idea

  • This may be particularly the case with suffering that is caused naturally (for example natural disasters) which are not the fault of humans

  • Some Jews may accept that suffering is a test of faith, as seen in the story of Job, but others may find this response challenging

    • This may be more so the case when the suffering seems unfair or excessive

  • Whereas some Jews are happy to accept that suffering is part of God’s divine plan, others may disagree

    • Some may feel that this response does not provide enough immediate comfort or understanding in the face of pain

  • Although some Jews believe that suffering can be a result of sin, many find it hard to accept 

    • Sometimes innocent people or those who have not sinned suffer a lot, making this explanation difficult for some

Different attitudes within Judaism to the practical solutions for the problem of suffering

• There are different responses to the proposed practical solutions to the problem of suffering in Judaism

• Most Jews would accept that charity and helping others are an important response to suffering

  • However, this response does not tackle the fact that suffering exists in the first place which can be difficult to reconcile

• Jews turn to prayer for comfort and healing as a way to seek strength, and healing in the face of suffering

  • However, some may struggle with the idea of praying for help if they feel disconnected from God during difficult times

• Many Jews work to achieve justice and address the causes of suffering in society, such as poverty or inequality

  • Some may struggle with the large-scale nature of this work, feeling that individual actions may not be enough to stop widespread suffering

• The Jewish community offers a support system for those suffering, and many Jews find comfort in this strong sense of community

  • However, for some, the suffering may feel too personal or overwhelming for community support to feel fully helpful

• Many Jews believe that by turning back to God and repenting, they can find relief from suffering

  • However, some might struggle with the idea that suffering is a result of their own actions or feel unsure about the process of repentance