The Secret to Self-Improvement
Moshe Rabenu subtly admonished Klal Yisrael by mentioning the locations where their misdeeds occurred. By mentioning the place but not the sin, the Torah lessens the accountability of Klal Yisrael. The merciful Torah considers the influence of the particular location as a contributing cause of the sin. From this perspective, man's culpability of the sin is eased and he is encouraged to rectify his behavior.
Lesson: When engaged in the process of repentance, it is important to consider that one of the primary causes of the sin is the environment in which we live. In this light, the accountability of man is lessened and our hope is strengthened that HaShem will accept our repentance.
App: Balance your feelings of culpability by realizing that the environment is a contributing factor to your behavior -- and be inspired to elevate yourself and improve your spiritual paths. (Based on the commentary of the Mei Shiloach to Devarim) to view the Salant Mussar Library Collection
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L"N Rav Yochanon Mordecai Ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leach bas Yehudah
Refuah Shleimah
Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta
Leiba Zlota bas Chana
Shalom Yoseph ben Leiba Zlota
Daniel Zvi ben Yochevd
Riva bas Henya
Zivia bas Raizel |
