Listen to True Prophets, Don’t Listen to False Prophets

In this audio lesson (6:09), Rabbi Nachman Simon summarizes a talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, on Deut. 13:1-6. These verses give a warning against following the words of a false prophet. This applies even if he seems to produce miracles to support his “prophecy” to worship an idol.

A true prophet may also produce miracles, but that is not a proof of his prophecy. But then, what is? A true prophet will always uphold the eternal nature of the 613 Jewish Commandments and the Seven Noahide Commandments in the Torah of Moses.

A true prophet will never contradict the Five Books of Moses or claim that any part has been nullified. This applies even if he or she reveals that it’s necessary to temporarily bypass a commandment (with the exception of idolatry) due to an emergency situation. An example is the sacrifice brought by Elijah on Mount Carmel, outside of the Holy Temple.