Souls Are in God’s Hand

Deuteronomy Rabbah 5:4

5th–10th Century

Two things are in God’s hand: the soul and justice. The soul, as it is written: In His hand is the soul of all the living (Job 12:10). And justice, as it is written: And My hand lays hold on judgment (Deuteronomy 32:41). God says, “The soul and justice are given over to my hand. You guard justice, and I will guard your souls.” Hence: You shall appoint judges and magistrates (Deuteronomy 16:18).

Translated by Dov Weiss and Jenny R. Labendz.

Published in: The Posen Library of Jewish Culture and Civilization, vol. 2: Emerging Judaism.

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