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May we rationalize Chukim?

We fulfill the mitzvos because we are commanded so by Hashem—regardless of whether they make sense to us or not. Mitzvos are nonetheless divided into distinct categories, comprehensible to varying degrees, that tell us how to perform them with the proper kavannah (intent).

Mishpatim (judgements) are laws with a logical basis. Il’malei nitnah Torah (had the Torah not been given), Chazal tell us, we would have arrived at these society-enhancing rules on our own. Our kavannah in performing them is by understanding their rationale.

Eidus (testimonies) are mitzvos that commemorate specific milestones in the creation of the world and our formation as Am Yisroel (the Jewish nation). The practice of these is comprehensible too, though not based on pure reason. When we commemorate these events, our kavannah also encompasses human logic.

Chukim (decrees) are laws that defy logic. We fulfill them purely because “Avi shebashamayim gazar alei” (my Father in Heaven has decreed it upon me), and for no other reason but our relationship with Hashem.

There is a unifying factor to all mitzvos in that the kavannah klalis (overall intent) when we fulfill them must be primarily based on our connection to the Commander—so that even if mishpatim—or any detail therein—would be incomprehensible to us, we would fulfill them just the same.

The Rambam states that even chukim have reasons, only that they are beyond our understanding. He recommends attempting to provide reasoning to the performance of these mitzvos as well—but we are cautioned to realize that this interpretation is based on human reasoning and not in any way related to Hashem’s unknowable Knowledge. In addition, we keep these mitzvos whether we are successful in understanding them or not.

Sefarim also mention the reverse: although mishpatim seem logical, taamei mitzvos lo nisgalu (the [true] reasons for mitzvos are not revealed to us)—our comprehension of the meaning of any type of mitzvah is limited. All mitzvos, including mishpatim, also entail myriad pratim (details) that are not in the realm of reason altogether. Our fulfillment of any mitzvah is thus un-predicated on our comprehension of it or any of its details. As we are told concerning the pratim of mitzvah observance: they are enacted solely letzareif es habriyos (to refine [us] mortals).