Judaism and Super Powers

[nightrose83]

Yes, I know the premise is a bit odd, but please bear with me. I have an MC who gets certain questions posed to him because he was raised in a religious community, but Google doesn't have too much to offer in the way of answers I can use. Background (and a bit of possible amusement) under the cut:

Comments

[offcenterfold]

One thing I can tell you is that there's a tenet in Judaism that clearly says, "choose life". Above all else, the life and health of a human being is of greatest priority; there are EXTREMELY few exceptions

[reconditarmonia]

Dude, I want to read a story where a Jewish superhero is conflicted about using lightning powers on Shabbat. Although yes, you can break Shabbat to save a life.

[offcenterfold]

Now I totally want to write one... It may take some time...

[marycatelli]

OTOH, if one thing not to do even to save a life is commit idolatry, so the pagan source may come to bear.

Personally, I suspect that there may be a difference between powers that are made inherent to the character -- aome being changes the character so he can throw lightning -- and powers that continue to draw on the source, Thor the God of Lightning.

[offcenterfold]

That's a very valid point; not one I'm sure I'm ready to tackle yet in-depth... I will go as far as pointing out that if you accept the existence of a supernatural/paranormal being (such as seraphim or ghosts) as being the vehicle for G-D's messages, without actually having them as a figure of worship, it might even rationalize around, say, Zeus giving someone the powers of his thunderbolt -- as long as worship is not expected. Clearly, if it were, that would change things.