Lilui Nishmas R' Yochanon Mordecai ben R' Ephraim The Three Unique Traits of Avraham Avinu \ Pirkei Avot 5:22 D'var Torah: "Those who have a good eye, a humble spirit, and a modest soul are from the students of Avraham Avinu. Those who have an evil eye, an arrogant spirit, and a gluttonous soul are from the students of the wicked Bilam" (Avot 5:22). Avraham Avinu was born into a family who lived in a society of idol-worshipers. Despite the darkness that surrounded him, Avraham used his intelligence to recognize the kind Creator and emulate his ways of kindness and compassion. Bilam, on the other hand was born with great spiritual powers and attained an exceptional level of prophecy. Despite Bilam's inherent advantages, he remained wicked because he did not work on refining his character traits. His corrupt inner self lead to his downfall. Conversely, despite Avraham Avinu's disadvantages, he emerged as the Holy Patriarch and Father of Klal Yisrael. What was the catalyst that propelled Avraham to incomparable greatness? Avraham worked very hard to recognize HaShem and attain excellent character virtues by emulating HaShem. Moral Lesson: Regardless of whether or not a person is born "gifted," the attainment of good character traits is the only criteria of true greatness. Application: Envision yourself as a student of Avraham Avinu. Take note of Avraham's "good eye" to see every person and every event in a positive perspective. Observe that his personality is permeated with humility and how he relates graciously and kindly to every person. See that he is a spiritually oriented person, focusing on his soul more than his earthly desires. Internalize Avraham's traits of a good eye, humility, and modesty -- and attain true happiness. (Based on the commentary of Rav Yechezkel Levenstein) |
L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph
Refuah Shleimah
Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta
Riva bas HenyaZivia bas RaizelLeah Hadassah bas Michal ChanaChava Bas Michal ChanahChaya Harriet Bat Sophie Lee Mazal Malkah Mollie Bas Sarah Yakir Efraim Ben Rachel Devora
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