The Beauty of Israel "Your footsteps were so lovely in wayfarers shoes" (Shir HaShirim 7:2). At the times of the festivals, the families of Klal Yisrael ascended en mass to Jerusalem. HaShem promised them that no one would steal from their unmanned homes when they went to worship in the Temple. Nevertheless, each footstep of their journey was a test of faith because their unguarded homes were vulnerable to thieves. When they entered the Temple, the Divine Presence rested upon them, inspiring them to place their absolute trust in HaShem's protection. However, the long journey to the Temple, required them to constantly overcome their concern over the vulnerability of their unmanned homes, with new supplies of trust in HaShem. Since their journey presented a greater struggle of faith, HaShem rewarded their trust during the journey, even more so than their trust when they entered the Temple. Lesson: The greater the challenge of faith, the greater reward and blessing we receive. In this light, they received greater reward for overcoming their uneasiness and placing their trust in HaShem, while traveling to Jerusalem. This is the secret of the verse, "Your footsteps were so lovely in wayfarers shoes." Visualization: Envision taking your family to Jerusalem and leaving your home without any watchman. As you make your way to Jerusalem you tend to think about your unprotected house. Fight off the concern by strengthening your faith in HaShem's promise to protect your property. Know that HaShem rewards you tremendously and blesses you countless times, for trusting Him so deeply in such a challenging situation. Increase your trust in HaShem in every situation that you face, and earn tremendous reward, blessing, and favor from HaShem. (Based on the teachings of Rav Shlomo Zalman Orbach)
To receive Salant Emails please send "request" to salantorg@gmail.com
| 
