This was lovely. Regarding the Jewish idea of martyrdom, since that came up in a note directed to me: we usually say that Kiddush Hashem, the requirement to "sanctify God's name," can entail martyrdom if a Jew is otherwise going to have to break one of three big Laws (which aren't exempt under pikuach nefesh, the principle that otherwise overrides the Law in life or death situations). I'm not sure it's totally aligned with the Christian idea of Jesus, but we definitely have an idea of redemptive sufferers like the traditional idea of Mashiach ben David having a disease. If you want a classic on the topic I'd recommend Rambam's Maamar Kiddush Hashem! Anyway loved this.
There's something for me where martyrdom does feel like a Willed Action, similar to Rosenfield. So to me this concept kinda turns it inside out - the action is obedience, regardless of outcome. I think I've just always found moral Law really evocative so the very "I can do no other" feel of that appeals to me.
This was lovely. Regarding the Jewish idea of martyrdom, since that came up in a note directed to me: we usually say that Kiddush Hashem, the requirement to "sanctify God's name," can entail martyrdom if a Jew is otherwise going to have to break one of three big Laws (which aren't exempt under pikuach nefesh, the principle that otherwise overrides the Law in life or death situations). I'm not sure it's totally aligned with the Christian idea of Jesus, but we definitely have an idea of redemptive sufferers like the traditional idea of Mashiach ben David having a disease. If you want a classic on the topic I'd recommend Rambam's Maamar Kiddush Hashem! Anyway loved this.
There's something for me where martyrdom does feel like a Willed Action, similar to Rosenfield. So to me this concept kinda turns it inside out - the action is obedience, regardless of outcome. I think I've just always found moral Law really evocative so the very "I can do no other" feel of that appeals to me.
I'll def be looking into Rambam - thanks!