  Despite its potential for harm, Spinoza thinks that religion can perform a positive social function. It can help to breed an obedient spirit, making people pliable to civil law—in this way religion plays a role in bolstering the state (e.g., TTP 14/168; cf. Moses’ use of a state religion, TTP 5/66). For instance, the ceremonial laws and practices of the Jews helped to foster and preserve cohesion among an ignorant, nomadic populace (TTP Ch. 3 and Ch. 5). The central moral message of religion—namely, to love one’s neighbor (e.g., TTP 14, 179)—may be understood through reason; but Scripture presents this message in a manner that is suited to the understanding of the masses (TTP 14, 184; see Strauss 1965, Ch. 9 and Smith 1997, Ch. 2). Religion also seems to play a crucial role in promoting compliance with the law.  Michael Rosenthal has suggested that in Spinoza’s scheme “transcendental beliefs” assist in overcoming free rider problems; defections from agreements and non-compliance with the law would likely be widespread among human beings were it not for religion (Rosenthal 1998).