A Discussion of the Theological Implications of Free Will In the Biblical Story of the Exodus From Egypt

Author

Michelle Okun, Trinity CollegeFollow

Date of Award

Spring 2012

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Major

Jewish Studies

First Advisor

Seth Sanders

Second Advisor

Ron Kiener

Abstract

The exploration of free will and divine providence was a focus of medieval, specifically Jewish, philosophers. Three men wrote extensively about the subject: Philo of Alexandria, Saadia Gaon, and Moses Maimonides. All argued through textual proof and critical thinking that God was innocent and just throughout the occurences described in the Exodus from Egypt. Each man used principles they held to be true and textual evidence to defend God, prove the continued existence of free will, and the ability for divine providence to exist without interfering with free will. Through an exploration of the story of Creation, mind and knowledge, justice, language, and reinterpretation, the three philosophers exercised presented their cases.

Comments

Senior thesis completed at Trinity College for the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies, December 2011.

Recommended Citation

Okun, Michelle, "A Discussion of the Theological Implications of Free Will In the Biblical Story of the Exodus From Egypt". Senior Theses, Trinity College, Hartford, CT 2012.
Trinity College Digital Repository, https://digitalrepository.trincoll.edu/theses/194