The Secret to Honor and Wealth \ The Wisdom of Solomon
D'var Torah:
"A gracious wife upholds honor, and strong ones uphold wealth" (Proverbs 11:16). If a man is fortunate to have a gracious wife, she does everything in her power to honor and help her husband. When his children are earnest and energetic, they assist him to attain wealth. The wisdom of this verse is also a metaphor for Torah. Meaning, through Torah study a person acquires honor and wealth. The honor that he receives through Torah refers to the development of good character traits. The Torah is the "gracious wife" that is the source of his inner perfection. The "wealth" that he receives through Torah, refers to his brilliant students, whose questions and insights sharpen his own Torah scholarship.
Moral: Just as a gracious wife is the source of her husband's honor, so too, the Torah is the source of one's good and pleasing character traits. In addition, just as earnest children advance their father's wealth, so too, diligent students enhance the Torah wisdom of their teacher.
Application: Envision your family as a team that works together to help each other attain honor, wisdom, and personal happiness. Devote a period of time each day to Mussar study and personal excellence. Be open to discuss Torah with others, and grow in your Torah clarity, wisdom, and knowledge.
(Based on the commentary of the Vilna Gaon)
