Decisions that lead to growth, success, and lasting happiness depend on clarity. Clarity in how we think. Clarity in how we see. Clarity in how we judge people and situations.
But that clarity is constantly undermined by human bias, which distorts how we see the world and how we see ourselves. How do we overcome it?
This week's Torah portion Shoftim, together with Pirkei Avot, presents a practical Torah framework for recognising bias, restoring clarity, and making decisions that are grounded in truth and guided by values.
Drawing from the laws of justice and the concept of prophecy, it reveals the hidden connection between character refinement and clear thinking.
Why do even brilliant people fall for obvious lies? Why do we make the same mistakes repeatedly? Because bias isn't just about external pressure—it lives inside us, invisible and inescapable.
But Torah offers more than diagnosis. Through the framework of prophecy as clarity, Chief Rabbi Dr Warren Goldstein shows how intellectual mastery and moral greatness can help us see reality more clearly.
Key insights:
Why complete objectivity is impossible for humans
How character flaws distort our perception of reality
The difference between procedural and substantive justice
What the Rambam teaches about prophecy and clarity
How refining character leads to better decisions
#Shoftim #Bias #DecisionMaking #Torah #JewishWisdom
