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Definition:
The phrase mazel tov is a traditional Yiddish way to wish someone good luck, often used as a toast when drinking. It means "may your planetary influences be favorable" and, hence, derives from earlier beliefs in astrology. The phrase "mazel tov" is a bit like archeological find which reveals something important about the past. Whereas a piece of pottery can tell us about the economic and political contacts a culture had, this linguistic remnant tells us something about what people used to believe.
It appears likely that astrology played an important role for the ancient Hebrews. The fact that various forms of divination (of which astrology is one) are repeatedly condemned in the Old Testament tells us that belief in astrology was persistent. If the people did what they were told, they wouldn't have to be told over and over again, always with dire consequences if they failed to obey this time. The religious beliefs of ancient people were thus probably far more diverse and less orthodox than is explicitly revealed in the surviving texts. History, as always, is written by the victors.
Little has changed even today. Technically, modern Judaism frowns upon astrology and astrological beliefs - as does Christianity. Many adherents of both Judaism and Christianity continue to maintain beliefs in astrology and the influence of planets over our lives. This is one of many examples of how religious believer hold beliefs which they technically should - beliefs which are contrary to their background theology.
Religious theists, even including Jews, tend to insist that they posses a perfect and accurate revelation from some god about how people should behave. A superficial reading of religious scripture and examination of believers' behavior might seem to support the contention that believers possess something consistent and accurate, but a closer look tells us something very different. Instead, what we find looks just like any other belief system: something that people only follow insofar as it seems convenient, but which they contradict whenever it appears reasonable and justified to do so. That's not consistent with believing that some standard has been issued by an all-powerful, all-knowing deity.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism? For that matter, what is and is not a religion?What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear.
