The Maimonides Minute

A prophet's primary role, apart from warning the people to keep G-d's laws, is to predict the future. In that case, how is a prophet different from a fortune teller? Is there a way to distinguish between them?

Are we allowed - or even required - to test a prophet? Are we allowed to demand a miracle to determine whether he is telling the truth? What creates the assumption that a prophet is truly speaking in G-d's name?

Are we allowed - or even required - to test a prophet? Are we allowed to demand a miracle to determine whether he is telling the truth? What creates the assumption that a prophet is truly speaking in G-d's name?

When is there a mitzvah to listen to a prophet who commands us to violate the Torah?

Which prophetic claims demonstrate that someone is a false prophet? If the prophecy of Moses is eternally valid and may not be contradicted, what is the role of prophets who lived after Moses?

Are we permitted to listen to a prophet who claims a new revelation that supersedes that of Moses? What if he performs signs and wonders to prove the veracity of his claims? What logic could there be in ignoring his prophecy when he has miraculous occurrences on his side?

What is the source of Moses' authority as the greatest prophet? Other prophets are believed in part because of the miracles they perform; is this true for Moses?

How does one know when to trust a prophet's words? What if a "prophet" gives a convincing sign, but might have done so through sleight of hand - how should his listeners behave? Do we trust him regardless, or do we require additional proof?

The Rambam understands Moses' prophecy as being so distinct from that of other prophets that the term "prophecy" should not, strictly speaking, even apply to it. In what ways is Mosaic prophecy different from the prophecy of every other prophet?

What does a prophet see in his visions - the words of G-d or a vision alone? Does a prophet receive a direct message, or something else entirely? If a person does everything necessary to become a prophet, is prophecy guaranteed?