Experience the Gifts of Joy
D'var Torah:"A man finds joy in giving an intelligent response -- and how good is a timely word" (Proverbs 15:23). King Solomon reveals a deep insight regarding the relationship between speech and joy. The process of organizing one's thoughts and speaking intelligently, awakens inner joy in the heart of the speaker. His joy results because the words of wisdom that he expresses, make him aware of his intelligent soul, the special faculty that HaShem grants to man, alone. Additionally, he rejoices more so upon realizing that speech is even a greater phenomenon than thought. While HaShem endows man with the power of thought, the wonder of speech is a a clear miracle.
Moral: Expressing intelligent concepts through speech brings us true joy. This joy resonates deeply within our soul because it makes us aware of two invaluable gifts that HaShem grants us -- our intelligent soul and the miracle of speech.
Application: Envision King Solomon speaking with great wisdom, and the light of joy shining on his countenance. Sense his gratitude upon realizing that wisdom and speech, are HaShem's most precious gifts to man. Share a D'var Torah with a friend or a group of people at your Shabbos table. Experience the joy of recognizing HaShem's kindness by granting you the power of thought and the wonder of speech.
(Based on the commentary of Rabenu Bachayah)
