Bereishit 5781

Question: What is the nature of the עץ החיים, and why does it suddenly become relevant only after the episode of eating from the עץ הדעת טוב ורע? Was it permitted to be eaten prior to this episode?


Approach: Taking a somewhat allegorical approach, it is possible to explain that the concept of immortality was built into creation with the possibility that it would be applied. Only after the first "sin" was it necessary for it to be completely taken out of the realm of humanity. This may even be backed up by the next story relating the first death.

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