Definition:

A core belief of Judaism in terms of just treatment for all.

Fundamental to the Jewish insistence on social justice is the belief that human beings are all descended from adam kadmon, the first human being, and as such we are all equal. Thus we read, “Only one human being was created in the beginning so that no person may be able to say to another, ‘my ancestor was greater than your ancestor.’” (Mishnah: Sanhedrin 4:5)

Unfortunately, not all branches of Judaism have always upheld the strongest of social justice ethics up until the present day, registering intolerance towards those who did not fall into the social strata of able-bodied, white heterosexual males. Fortunately, Reform Judaism seeks to address these wrongs and stresses egalitarianism and inclusivity for all.

Social justice is not merely a Jewish concern since “we maintain the poor of the gentiles along with the poor of Israel” (Babylonian Talmud: Gittin 61a). Just as there are no individuals who are exempt from social justice, so too there are no areas of life in which social justice is not essential. For example, we should uphold the highest ethical standards in terms of buying products that do not damage the earth, that do not poison those who manufacture them or that do not keep those who produce them in poverty. With this in mind, a number of Reform synagogues insist on using Fairtrade products.

In terms of today’s consumer society, perhaps social justice is most relevant in the absolute abhorrence by Judaism towards anything which is harmful to consumers or manufacturers. However, social justice also extends to the requirement for us to limit our material goods in order to allow us to be able to use our money for good causes.

Perhaps the most important Biblical verse in terms of social justice is “You shall love your neighbour as yourself, I am the Eternal” (Lev. 19:18). This verse is so crucial not only because of its central role in the Torah (the middle verse of the middle chapter of the middle book) but because it shows that the understanding that everyone deserves equal treatment is no mere ethical choice but a Divine imperative. From the concept of social justice naturally springs social action – for more information please see the Social Action link.

Sources:

• Principles of Jewish Ethics, Rabbi John Rayner, Liberal Judaism, 2005
• “With All Your Possession” – Jewish Ethics and Economic Life, Meir Tamari, Free Press, New York, 1987
• Down To Earth Judaism, Rabbi Arthur Waskow, William Morrow, New York, 1995

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