Are there any published works on the scientific rationale for any of the 613 Mizvot?
For example: Handwashing: It only took the medical community did not deem it medically relevant until 2 centuries ago. The MD who did the first research was shunned by his colleagues and died before his discovery in obstetrical procedures with handwashing was saving women's lives was fully realized. The first national guidelines for handwashing in medicine were not published until the 80's https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK144018/
The reason I am asking this is a would like to start compiling not only rationale but scientific evidence as to the results of following or not following it, that show why following it is of benefit.
I am thinking of blogging on it actually and cannot find many books on the topic, although I have started reading the jewish philosophers who did categorize the 613 in numerous ways. Our science is always improving and so should the list of scientific rationale be expanding.
The hand washing example, demonstrates a powerful example of the loss of life involved in not following that one simple commandment! Amazing! Even more relevant considering the increasing prevalence and incidence of resistant bacteria like MRSA.
