ABSTRACT
In the Jewish faith ethical values are of primary concern. Such a system of ethics – as enshrined in the Bible and in rabbinic literature – embodies some essential characteristics. First, there is an intensity of passion about the moral demands made upon human beings. Second, Jewish ethics require that each person be treated equally – Biblical and rabbinic sources show a constant concern to eliminate arbitrary distinctions between individuals so as to establish a proper balance between competing claims. A third characteristic of Jewish morality is its emphasis on human motivation. A fourth dimension of Jewish morality concerns the traditional attitude to animals. A final aspect of Jewish ethics is its concern for human dignity. The Jewish faith continually emphasizes the respect due to all individuals. This concept, found in various laws in the Torah, was developed by the rabbis who cautioned that one must be careful not to humiliate or embarrass others.
