Jewish tradition takes a nuanced view of power that challenges common moral philosophical assumptions - rather than condemning it outright as inherently corrupting, classical Jewish sources frame power as morally neutral and potentially beneficial when properly constrained. Through analysis of the Hebrew Bible, Talmudic literature, and other religious texts across different historical periods and authors, a complex framework emerges that legitimizes power when used to control nature and serve human needs, as established in Genesis's grant of earthly dominion to humanity. However, the tradition draws sharp ethical boundaries, strictly prohibiting the use of power to coerce or exploit others and emphasizing humanity's role as stewards rather than absolute owners of divine gifts. Key limitations include the requirement for divine acknowledgment and restrictions on harming others except in legitimate self-defense. Biblical prophets and Rabbinic authorities consistently denounced tyrannical abuses, as seen in their criticisms of oppression and constraints on monarchical authority. While Jewish sources ultimately support power's legitimate exercise for enriching human life, they maintain clear ethical distinctions between lawful self-defense and unlawful aggression - though applying these ancient principles to modern contexts remains complex.