Hello, today we are starting a new chapter in the book "Brit Shalom", the fourth chapter.
The fourth chapter deals with a commandment that at first glance may seem esoteric and not very relevant in our time — the laws of blasphemy, or as it is referred to in a more refined language, "blessing the Name" (a euphemism for cursing God).
However, we will see that surrounding this formal prohibition of blasphemy, there are many related issues that are deeply connected to this topic. That is why they have been included here, due to their fundamental relevance.
First, I have brought two verses — one from Psalms and one from Leviticus.
Why begin with a verse from Psalms? After all, the Torah holds greater significance and a higher status.
The reason is that Psalms express the idea in a positive manner. It is true that I am forbidden to curse God, but what should I do instead?
I should praise Him.
That is why I have brought the verse:
"Praise the Lord, all nations; exalt Him, all peoples" (Psalms 117:1).
On the other hand, there is the formal halachic prohibition:
"Any man who curses his God shall bear his sin" (Leviticus 24:15),
which presents the legal restriction. However, if we learn that blasphemy is forbidden, it also implies that it is highly appropriate to bless and give thanks.
Now, let us begin with the formal laws.
Section A:
"Both Noahides and Israelites alike are forbidden to utter blasphemy or a curse against the Creator of the world."
This means that one must not speak disrespectfully about the Holy One, Blessed be He. This law is derived from the verse:
"Any man who curses his God" (Leviticus 24:15).
The phrase "Any man" includes both Jews and non-Jews.
Section B:
This section also explains the fundamental idea behind this commandment.
The essence of this commandment is to reject a pessimistic worldview that sees only evil in God's world and tends to blame the Creator.
According to the Talmud, this commandment was already given to Adam, the first man, and it is a fundamental value of human existence.
Thus, the prohibition against blasphemy is not only about avoiding disrespect toward holiness but also serves to teach us to look at God's world with a positive perspective—no matter the circumstances.
&n
