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A neder is a vow taken voluntarily. A vow can forbid one from deriving pleasure from particular objects or actions, obligate one to perform an action in the future, or declare that an individual is becoming a Nazirite, among other functions. Stories of vows feature throughout the Bible, and many laws relating to vows are derived from Numbers 30.
Notable Sources
All Sources
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The Nature of a Vow
COMMENTARY
Vows involve forbidding oneself from something permissible, rather than permitting something forbidden. Rashi, the renowned 11th-century French biblical commentator, elucidates the definition and scope of vows according to the Torah.
The Weight of a Vow
TANAKH
Fulfilling vows promptly is crucial, and it is better not to make a vow at all if there is a risk of not fulfilling it. Ecclesiastes, one of the five megillot (scrolls), emphasizes the importance of fulfilling vows made to God without delay.
The Wisdom of Vows
HALAKHAH
Rambam (Maimonides) advises against frequently making vows, emphasizing the importance of restraint and seeking absolution if vows are made. In his Mishneh Torah, Rambam provides guidance on the proper approach to making and absolving vows, reflecting Jewish values of moderation and consultation with sages.
The Structure and Significance of Vows
GUIDES
Understanding the categorization and structure of vows is important for comprehending their significance and application in Jewish law. Adin Steinsaltz's commentary on Tractate Nedarim elucidates the distinctions between vows of consecration and vows of prohibition.
The Art of Making Vows
COMMENTARY
Making vows can be spiritually significant, but they must be made carefully to avoid the risk of failing to fulfill them. The 18th-century Torah commentary Or HaChaim by Rabbi Chaim ibn Attar discusses the nuances of different types of vows and the conditions under which they are commendable.
The Silent Power of Vows
KABBALAH
The true essence of a vow lies in the silent intention rather than the spoken words. Rabbi Chaim Vital, a prominent 16th–17th century kabbalist, explores the spiritual significance of vows and silent prayers, emphasizing God's omniscience and the importance of sincere, heartfelt devotion.
The Complexity of Annulment
RESPONSA
The annulment of vows requires specific conditions and knowledgeable individuals, making it a complex and nuanced process. The Geonic Responsa, a collection of legal decisions from early medieval Jewish scholars, outlines the detailed procedures and qualifications necessary for the annulment of vows.
The Controversy of Kol Nidrei
COMMENTARY
The recitation of Kol Nidrei on Erev Yom Kippur is surrounded by controversy and complexities, particularly regarding the annulment of past vows. Rabbi Joseph Karo, in his detailed commentary, addresses the procedural requirements for nullifying vows, such as the need for three ordinary men or one expert, and the necessity of regret and specification of the vow.
The Visible Commitment of the Nazirite Vow
JEWISH THOUGHT
The Nazirite vow is a unique form of Jewish asceticism that visibly sets individuals apart through their uncut hair and abstention from wine. The Book of Numbers describes the Nazirite vow, which includes abstaining from wine, avoiding contact with corpses, and not cutting one's hair as a sign of special dedication to God.
The Consequences of Unfulfilled Vows
COMMENTARY
Unfulfilled vows can have severe consequences, including the death of one's spouse and children, and even reincarnation as divine retribution. Rabbi Yosef Hayyim of Baghdad, known as the Ben Ish Chai, elaborates on the Talmudic tradition that emphasizes the gravity of keeping one's vows.
The Perils of Promises
MIDRASH
The rabbis believed that divine intervention could either support or reject the fulfillment of vows based on their reasonableness and the circumstances surrounding them. The fifth-century midrashic text, Vayikra Rabbah, explores the consequences of making vows and the importance of careful speech and intention.
Empower Your Personal Growth
MUSAR
Vows can be a powerful tool for personal growth and ethical improvement, helping to overcome negative traits like arrogance and wickedness. The 14th-century ethical guide, Sefer HaYashar, offers practical advice on using vows to foster virtues such as humility.
A poster with the words for an annulment (Hatarat Nedarim), that could be done to break a vow without it being a sin. כפי מנהג חכמי בית-אל בירושת"ו לומר בערב שבת וער"ח. סדר התרת נדרים, הספריה הלאומית
A poster with the words for an annulment (Hatarat Nedarim), that could be done to break a vow without it being a sin. כפי מנהג חכמי בית-אל בירושת"ו לומר בערב שבת וער"ח. סדר התרת נדרים, הספריה הלאומית
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