Torah's View on Self-Defense and Protection

Question: What is the Torah's perspective on self-defense and protecting oneself in dangerous situations? Answer: The Torah mandates self-defense, instructing that if someone intends to kill you, you should preemptively strike. This obligation, however, only applies when your life is directly threatened. In less severe cases, where the threat is non-lethal or escapable, fleeing is advised over violence. True safety, according to Torah, derives not from physical means but from divine protection through adherence to Torah, repentance, and observance of commandments. Furthermore, the Torah emphasizes caution in both physical and spiritual environments to avoid unnecessary risks and exposure to harm.