.jpeg)
Chok L'Yisrael
Korach for Tuesday
The rule of wisdom is silence. As the Talmud states in Megilla 18a, "If a word is worth one sela, then silence is worth two." When we speak, we risk regret; but when we remain silent, regret is unlikely. Before words leave our mouths, we control them; once spoken, they control us.
"And show you compassion and be compassionate with you" (Devarim 13:18). This verse teaches us that those who show compassion to others will receive compassion from Heaven. Indeed, what distinguishes a person who lacks compassion from an animal that neither cares for nor perceives the suffering of its fellow creatures?
A wise man once said: "Whoever sows hatred will reap regret." The end of quarreling is often regret. By pausing before we act, we can often avoid cause for remorse.
Frivolity removes reverence and is but one step away from licentiousness. Our Rabbis, of blessed memory, derived from Scripture that whoever behaves frivolously risks falling into hell and may not merit being brought before the Shechinah (Divine Presence).
How should one seek revenge against an enemy? The answer lies in self-improvement. By cultivating one additional virtue, a person can effect change. When we correct our sins against our Creator, our Creator will correct others' sins towards us.
Yosef le-Chok
(Sefer Chasidim, 86-87)
.............
Conclusion:
Silence is often seen as a powerful spiritual practice. It represents restraint and the potential to connect with Higher Wisdom. The idea that once words leave our mouth, they rule over us, emphasizes the importance of guarding our speech to maintain spiritual integrity.
Silence is often seen as a powerful spiritual practice. It represents restraint and the potential to connect with Higher Wisdom. The idea that once words leave our mouth, they rule over us, emphasizes the importance of guarding our speech to maintain spiritual integrity.
The quote "Whoever is compassionate towards others will receive compassion from Heaven" reflects the principle of middah keneged middah (measure for measure), where our actions directly influence the Divine response we receive.
Improving oneself to correct the sins of others aligns with the concept of tikkun (rectification). Personal growth and rectification of one's character traits contribute to the rectification of the world and bring us closer to G-d.
These teachings emphasize the profound impact of our thoughts, words, and actions on our spiritual state and the world around us.
These teachings emphasize the profound impact of our thoughts, words, and actions on our spiritual state and the world around us.
*The Hebrew term "Shechinah" שְׁכִינָה (Divine Presence) of G-d dwelling among the people. The word is derived from the Hebrew verb "shachan" (שָׁכַן), meaning "to dwell" or "to reside." The Shechinah is often described as the Immanent aspect of G-d, representing His closeness and direct involvement in the world. The Shechinah is the dwelling of G-d's Presence and is the source of vitality for all creatures. However, its Light cannot be received without the "garment" of the Torah and Its commandments. Likewise, the Shechinah is with each individual who sits by himself and occupies himself in the Torah. The souls of the righteous reside in the world of Beriah and are united with the Shechinah's Light. (Tanya)
*The Hebrew term "Middah Keneged Middah" מִדָּה כְּנֶגֶד מִדָּה (measure for measure). This concept is a fundamental principle in Jewish ethics and theology, indicating that the way a person behaves will be reflected back to them in how they are treated, both by other people and by G-d. This principle encourages self-reflection and moral integrity, as people are reminded that their actions have significant and sometimes immediate repercussions. The application of middah keneged middah extends beyond punitive measures to include positive actions as well. Acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion attract similar responses from others and blessings from G-d.
*The Hebrew term "Tikkun" תִּיקּוּן (repair or rectification), refers to the process of spiritual repair and restoration of balance in the world and within oneself. The world was created with inherent imperfections and human beings have a responsibility to engage in actions that help to mend and perfect the world. Tikkun is not only about cosmic repair but also about personal and communal transformation. It involves self-improvement, ethical behavior, and spiritual growth.
*The Hebrew term "Middah Keneged Middah" מִדָּה כְּנֶגֶד מִדָּה (measure for measure). This concept is a fundamental principle in Jewish ethics and theology, indicating that the way a person behaves will be reflected back to them in how they are treated, both by other people and by G-d. This principle encourages self-reflection and moral integrity, as people are reminded that their actions have significant and sometimes immediate repercussions. The application of middah keneged middah extends beyond punitive measures to include positive actions as well. Acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion attract similar responses from others and blessings from G-d.
*The Hebrew term "Tikkun" תִּיקּוּן (repair or rectification), refers to the process of spiritual repair and restoration of balance in the world and within oneself. The world was created with inherent imperfections and human beings have a responsibility to engage in actions that help to mend and perfect the world. Tikkun is not only about cosmic repair but also about personal and communal transformation. It involves self-improvement, ethical behavior, and spiritual growth.
Comments
Post a Comment