#10 The problem of Evil
· One of the oldest problems in Jewish philosophy
· The existence of Evil in potential is a form of imperfection. Imperfection is inherent in the best possible creation by definition.
· Evil is a necessary tool for spiritual growth and maturity. If there are no evil people than there are no good people. Good qualities are appreciated best and motivated best by contrasting with its opposite.
· God only allows for evil to manifest by suppressing His Justice and Mercy. It is not as severe a problem if God were to commit evil directly.
· The possibility of Evil informs us the fact that God trusts Humanity to overcome temptation. He did not create robots who are incapable of committing evil. Evil is a created power of potential which brings great responsibility to the one who can choose it. It is inextricably bound to free-will
· Why is there free-will to choose evil? See Ramchal—it allows more similarity to the Creator because you can generate your own goodness and allows reception of the greatest good.
