Is authority binding in error? The Torah commands us to follow the instructions of the Sanhedrin Ha-Gadol: “do not deviate from what they tell you, neither right, nor left.” (Devarim 17:11). According to Chazal, this pasuk affirms the authority of the Sanhedrin even if they err. (Sifri 155). This is hard to swallow. Why should we follow a mistake?
Welcome to Daf Aleph, an educational resource on the fundamental topics in Judaism and Jewish philosophy. Covering both timeless subjects, conversations, and debates, as well as more modern and contemporary issues, Daf Aleph was created for anyone interested in learning more about a particular topic in Jewish thought. Founded after the recognition that no such easily-accessible online resource on matters of Jewish thought and machshavah exists, Daf Aleph aims to be just that — a website of Jewish thought for thoughtful Jews.
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