Eternal Destiny: The Jewish Soul and the World to Come

In our previous discussion, we explored how the soul's unique nature influences its reward and punishment. Now, let's examine if this punishment is temporary or eternal. It's important to note that not all sins are equal, so neither are their consequences. Some souls endure in Gehennom for twelve months, others for more or less, and a few face eternal punishment. As this is a nuanced topic, I will keep it concise.

You've surely heard the teachings of our Sages that "all Israelites have a share in the world to come," quoting the scripture that says "Your people are all righteous; they shall inherit the land forever." This land allegorizes the Land of Life and the World to Come. Yet, questions arise: Does every Jew, righteous or sinful, indeed merit this? Our sages reject the notion of learning from generalizations in this instance.

The reasoning appears flawed because exceptions are clearly delineated: the text explicitly names those who have no part in the World to Come. Furthermore, scripture proclaims "Your people are all righteous." It only excludes a few, similar to the rule of setting aside or omitting. In my view, this means that anyone performing even a single mitzvah properly retains its merit forever, even if they perform forbidden acts.

Scriptures elaborate: There's a person with ten mitzvot and ten sins. Hashem—our merciful judge—doesn't nullify mitzvot against sins. He exacts punishment for sins first and then rewards the observance of mitzvot, as mentioned in Midrash Shocher Tov. Thus, Hashem ensures that one's rightful merit endures forever, as written: "You, Hashem, are merciful because you repay a person according to their deeds."

Others reinforce this view: the soul first receives punishment for its sins, thereafter, reward for its mitzvot. Rabbeinu Bachya explains that a perfectly righteous person isn't spared from punishment for even a minor sin, nor is a single mitzvah eliminated because of one sin. Each receives due penalty for the sin and reward for the mitzvot.

The Mishnah states that Hashem wanted to merit Israel, so He gave them many mitzvot, despite apparent obstacles presented by Torah as well. Hashem increased the Torah's mitzvot so that everyone might achieve the World to Come, despite punishment for defiance. Maimonides noted that genuine observance of any mitzvah suffices to attain eternal life, ensuring its performance for the sake of love rather than worldly intentions.

When Rabbi Chanina ben Teradyon queried Rabbi Yose ben Kisma about his share in the World to Come, the response emphasized the significance of performing mitzvot with precision. He confirmed that even mundane acts possess value when accompanied by justice and charity.

The conclusion is clear: Every Israeli Jew unknowingly earns a portion in the World to Come, ensuring no favoritism in judgment. Justice demands initial punishment followed by unfettered reward for mitzvot. This system honors each individual's actions based on their level. This resolves longstanding debate: Does Torah grant completion by itself, or through its components?

Ultimately, Torah indeed provides life for its followers. Even a single mitzvah, performed truthfully, grants eternal joy after temporary punishment. Not all descendants of Abraham and Jacob carry the noble title of Israel; severe transgressions extinguish mitzvah merit.

Thus, some individuals—who deny, distort, or dismiss significant foundations—are excluded from the World to Come. Those espousing disbelief in Torah's divine origin, or rejecting prophecy, fall into this category, fearing eternal punishment as stated: "Their worm shall never die, their fire shall never be quenched."

Our scholars deemed these transgressors particularly grievous, removing them from Israel's sacred fold. If Torah establishes belief systems indispensably, it's based on foundational principles threatened through doubt and denial.

Yet, even their severe fate changes on Shabbat, a time known for universal peace. Shabbat grants serenity to souls, even those consigned to punishment, illustrating the joy and restful nature of this sacred day. Zohar and other texts highlight the solace Shabbat brings, pausing all dominion over souls.

Shabbat encompasses universal vitality, offering rest to both the righteous and the wayward. As we celebrate this eternal Shabbat, may we protect its sanctity, prepare ourselves spiritually, and embrace the eternal peace it promises.