This book describes the influence of Epicurus on Judaism. Judaism is the only national culture which has adopted the name of this Greek philosopher, using it as a term designating Jews who believe in freedom to choose their way of life, without obligation to obey religious precepts. Today, most Jews live as "Apikorsim". The heresy implicit in the denial of the existence of a personal God includes a denial of belief in life after death. Apikorsim believe that the purpose of life and of morality is found in striving for happiness.
SKU (ISBN): 978-1-60724-344-1
Publication Status: In Print
Publication Date: Oct 29,2009
Interior Color: Black
Trim Size: 6 x 9
Page Count: 170
Language: English
ISBN: 978-1-60724-344-1
This book describes the influence of Epicurus on Judaism. Judaism is the only national culture which has adopted the name of this Greek philosopher, using it as a term designating Jews who believe in freedom to choose their way of life, without obligation to obey religious precepts. Today, most Jews live as "Apikorsim". The heresy implicit in the denial of the existence of a personal God includes a denial of belief in life after death.
Apikorsim believe that the purpose of life and of morality is found in striving for happiness – the betterment of human life whose principles are based on the laws of universal justice as phrased by Hillel: Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you.
Epicurus' non-religious philosophy spread during the Hellenistic period to all Mediterranean cultures, including Judaism. Its effect can be found in the Bible in the books of Kohelet/Ecclesiastes and the Book of Job.
