Understanding the Thirteen Principles of Jewish Faith in Modern Times

The Rambam, Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon, stands as one of the most significant scholars in Jewish history. A revered philosopher of the Middle Ages, a polymath, and a physician, he remains a towering figure in Judaism whose insights continue to resonate today.

Rambam defined the essentials of Jewish faith through thirteen principles, which every Jew is required to know. Denial of any of these principles is considered heretical, excluding one from the Jewish community and affecting one’s share in the world to come. He enumerates these principles in his introduction to his commentary on the chapter "Chelek" from the Mishnah in tractate Sanhedrin.

The Thirteen Principles of Faith

1. Complete faith in Hashem as the Creator, who made everything and continues to be involved in the actions of the world. (Existence of Hashem)

2. Belief in the absolute unity and uniqueness of Hashem, unlike anything else. (Unity)

3. Belief that Hashem is non-corporeal and no physical phenomena can affect Him. (Incorporeality)

4. Hashem is eternal, being the first and the last. (First and Last)

5. Worship should be directed only to Hashem, with no intermediaries. (Worship)

6. The words of the prophets are true. (Prophecy)

7. The prophecy of Moses our teacher was true, and he was the father of the prophets. (Prophecy of Moses)

8. The Torah we have is that which was given to Moses. (Divine Origin of the Torah)

9. The Torah will not be replaced, nor will another Torah come from Hashem. (Immutability of the Torah)

10. Hashem knows the actions and thoughts of humans. (Omniscience)

11. Hashem rewards those who keep His commandments and punishes those who do not. (Reward and Punishment)

12. Belief in the coming of the Messiah, even if his arrival is delayed. (Messianic Coming)

13. Belief in the resurrection of the dead at the time of Hashem's choosing. (Resurrection of the Dead)

These principles are recited daily in morning blessings, and on Shabbat and festivals after prayers. They form the foundation of the prayer "Adon Olam" and the song "Yigdal," both composed based on these principles.

Faith and True Happiness

In modern times, many people seek greater joy in life. Yet the pace of daily life and its challenges often lead to dissatisfaction or even despair. Rabbi Zamir Cohen guides us toward true happiness through faith.

Rambam emphasizes the enduring importance of these principles: "The fundamentals of our faith and their foundations are the thirteen principles." He categorizes them into three groups: belief in Hashem's existence and unity; belief in the divine origin of the Torah and the truth of prophecy; and belief in reward and punishment.