The Way of Piety of Don Isaac Abarbanel

Abstract

Don Isaac Abarbanel dealt with the question of the proper way to reach one’s purpose in life, and whether the path of asceticism and abstinence is an appropriate way to do so. Additionally, he addressed whether this way is suitable for the public or only select individuals of virtue. A close look at Abarbanel's writings indicates he thought that asceticism, abstinence, isolation, and so on are not recommended behaviors for a Jew. Drawing on the work of Yehuda Halevi and Maimonides, Abarbanel calls on man to fulfill the commandments of the Torah because it is the proper method for achieving one’s purpose. There is no need for ascetic behavior because such a path does not lead to greater human perfection; on the contrary, there are times when it may impair the attainment of humanity’s goal. However, there was a single exception in human history: Moses, for whom reclusion from human society was necessary to reach the highest spiritual level. This level was necessary in order for him to receive the Torah. Nevertheless, Moses is not the prototype for the rest of humanity. The ordinary person will be able to attain a balanced life in which the body and the soul come to their well-being through the commandments of the Torah only, and nothing more. However, in certain situations there is an option for asceticism not as a way of life but as a local way of spiritual transcendence, repairing the body and soul, or for atonement.