| Argument | Evidence | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| It is possible to retain a Jewish identity without living according to the mitzvot. | Reform Jews do not consider that they are breaking any laws when they decide not to follow all of the mitzvot. | Even though the covenant was established in ancient times, the laws are still relevant and are constantly being discussed and re-interpreted to ensure their relevance for modern-day living. |
| The covenant only really had legal value when the nation of Israel was being established in the wilderness. | It was important at that time that there was a firm moral and ethical structure within which the new community could be established.
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You cannot be arrested by the police and charged with breaking the laws of God in our society therefore they are not of legal value.
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| The covenant made with Moses is an eternal covenant, and therefore still has legal value as both parties have a responsibility to keep the terms of the agreement. |
It is only really the religious rules that many see to be outdated but these are significant and symbolic of the covenant. Keeping the rules shows discipline and turns everyday acts of daily life into opportunities for worshipping God.
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The agreement of the covenant does not change and to disregard aspects of it because they do not suit one party today in effect breaks the contract.
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| There is a danger that focusing on following the rules can mean a loss of opportunities for spiritual development. |
It can lead to isolation from society and an insular approach to life and relationships with others.
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Religious beliefs and practices may stagnate, lose meaning and be incapable of coping with modern life. There may be conflicts of interests between religious rules and secular law.
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