Is dogma inherent in mitzvot?

Vy_lette

The controversy whether the practice of mitzvot in Judaism is inherently connected to Judaism's dogma, has been discussed by many scholars. Moses Mendelssohn, in his "Jerusalem," defended the non-dogmatic nature of the practice of Judaism. Rather, he asserted, the dogma and beliefs of Judaism, although revealed by God in Judaism, consist of universal truths applicable to all mankind. Rabbi Judah Low ben Bezalel (Maharal), among others, took the opposite side. Underlying the practice of the Law was assuredly the recognition of certain fundamental principles, he asserted, culminating in the belief in God and revelation, and likewise in the doctrine of divine justice. The first to make the attempt to formulate Jewish principles of faith was Philo of Alexandria. He enumerated five articles: God is and rules; God is one; the world was created by God; Creation is one, and God's providence rules Creation. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_principles_of_faith#Is_dogma_inherent_in_mitzvot.3F Aug 06 07, 12:40 AM