Defining Identity through Divine Retribution in Tannaitic Judaism

Abstract

This essay deals with the notion of divine retribution in Tannaitic literature. It argues that this concept can be used to establish traditions and create identity. After introductory remarks on the different Tannaitic perspectives on divine retribution, the paper focuses on the main features of the Tannaitic idea of divine retribution, exploring the key questions: Why and when does God punish? Why and when does God bestow a reward? Who is supposed to be rewarded, and why? Who will be punished, and why? It then deals with the different uses the Tannaim made of the concept of retribution.