Jewish responses to the Holocaust
Many Jews believe that everything God does is for good. From a human perspective, some actions might seem evil, but they trust that whatever happens on Earth is ultimately according to God’s plan, which is good.
There are many Jewish responses to the problem of evil and suffering.
- The TanakhThe collected 24 books of the Jewish Bible. There are three sections: Torah, Nevi'im and Ketuvim (TaNaKh). May also be spelled Tenakh. teaches that suffering can be a punishment for sins.
- The Tenakh teaches that suffering can be part of a test from God of a person’s faith and to see if they will freely follow God’s commandmentA law or instruction believed to have been given by God.. Passing the test means they will be rewarded in this life or after death.
- Some Jews believe that suffering can bring people closer to God. In times of trouble many people turn to religion for comfort and support.
- Some Jews believe suffering helps people to empathyAn awareness and understanding of another person's feelings, situation or motives. with others and to assist them when necessary.
- Suffering cannot be understood by humans; this particularly relates to the suffering Jewish people endured during the HolocaustThe killing of 6 million Jews and other minorities by the Nazis during World War Two. or ShoahThe Hebrew word for the Holocaust.. However, many Jews believe they must do all they can to overcome and relieve suffering.