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yetzer ha-raʿ
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yetzer ha-raʿ

Judaism
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Quick Summary

In Jewish tradition, yetzer ha-ra refers to the inclination or impulse toward evil, considered an inherent part of human nature. This concept is understood as a tension within human beings, alongside the yetzer ha-tov (the good impulse).12

Rabbinic Judaism developed the idea of yetzer ha-ra from biblical passages, interpreting it as the "evil inclination" that can lead to disobedience and sin. This internal conflict highlights human freedom and the ethical choices individuals must make. Judaism emphasizes that humans are ethically bound creatures, responsible for their actions and capable of choosing obedience or disobedience to divine will.2

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. yetzer hara
  2. Judaism - The ethically bound creature

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