The God Narratives

Abstract This chapter explores the two Talmudic narratives that describe God acting lifnim mi-shurat ha-din. While such divine actions are frequently correlated with compassion and mercy, the texts also highlight their relational character, emphasizing the fact that God is moved to compassion like a father toward his children. While these texts develop the juxtaposition of lifnim mi-shurat ha-din with judgment or law, they do so in a manner that presents improvisation in a strictly positive light. As the perfect actor, God’s decision to act lifnim mi-shurat ha-din can only yield a better consequence for the human petitioner.