Say Goodbye To 2017 | Ep. 443

Divine Creator

Ben Shapiro presents a philosophical argument for the existence of a divine creator, emphasizing the necessity of belief in a higher power for understanding the universe. He argues that belief in free will, human reason, and a predictable universe with governing laws inherently points to a divine creator. This perspective aligns with the Aristotelian argument for God, suggesting that there is a rationale behind everything, and if one believes in this rationale, they inherently believe in God 1.

If you believe there's a rationale behind everything, then you believe in God.

--- Ben Shapiro

Shapiro further explains that the concept of an unmoved mover, as proposed by Aristotle, supports the idea of a purely actual entity that is the source of all existence 1.

   

Zionism

Shapiro identifies as a Zionist, believing that Jews deserve a state of their own in biblical Israel. He explains that Zionism is rooted in Judaism, which suggests Jewish rule in the holy land as a biblical promise. Shapiro argues that a Jewish state based on foundational Jewish principles is justified due to historical anti-Semitism and the belief that such a country would be inherently good, much like a country ruled by Christian principles 2.

Zionism is the idea that the Jews deserve a state of their own in biblical Israel.

--- Ben Shapiro

He also notes that the Bible is ambivalent about state power, emphasizing that Zionism does not necessarily imply a theocracy 2.

   

Community Standards

The debate over modern religious community standards, particularly regarding same-sex marriage, is a contentious issue. Shapiro discusses the controversy surrounding a synagogue's decision not to allow a married lesbian couple to join as members, citing religious standards that view homosexual activity as a sin. He argues that while individuals can join as single members, expecting the community to change its marriage standards imposes on the community's beliefs 3.

The whole point here is that glorification of sin in an orthodox context is not a cool thing.

--- Ben Shapiro

Shapiro emphasizes that religious institutions should adhere to their standards, and changing these standards to accommodate modern views could undermine the community's values 4.