Question:
Dear rabbi,
I was curious what the Jewish view on evil people is? By evil, I mean people who hurt animals and/or people. I could not imagine hurting an animal or person yet some people have no issues with doing those heinous acts. How does Judaism handle the fact that evil people exist?
Answer:
Without getting into specifics, the way Judaism views the fact that evil people exist, is that G-d gave man the freedom to choose, right from wrong, and was instructed to chose to act correctly, and those who choose to act correctly will be rewarded for it. However, being that the choice is given, unfortunately, there are those who will choose to do evil instead. Judaism believes that G-d is in control of the world, and even though a person has the free will to do what he chooses to do, there is reward and punishment, for those who act evilly.
Have a good day
