Reward and Punishment: Why Judaism is So Obsessed with Sticks and Carrots

Bechukosai

Why does the Torah place such strong emphasis on reward and punishment, yet at the same time discourage serving G-d for reward? Are incentives a central part of spiritual growth, or something to move beyond? This class explores the Torah’s two-sided approach to motivation. On one hand, reward and consequence guide behavior and create accountability; on the other, the ideal is to serve G-d out of love and connection, where the mitzvah itself becomes the true value. By examining sources from the Torah, Talmud, and Rambam, the class shows how both perspectives are essential—first as a starting point, and ultimately as a path toward deeper, more meaningful service.