|
Translate Feelings Into Action \ Parashat Kedoshim D'var Torah: "Every man shall fear his mother and his father" (Vayikra 19:3). Respect for our parents is one of the most precious and important ideals of our holy Torah. The Talmud asks, "What is implied in the concept "fear of parents"? That one should not sit in his father's chair nor speak in his stead nor contradict his words. And what is implied in the term "honor of parents"? That the child should help his parents to eat and drink (if need be), provide them with clothes, and escort them in and out of the room." (Bava Metzia 32a) The subject of the verse is the Mitzvah to revere one's parents. Yet, the Talmud's explanation refers to specific actions, and doesn't touch on fear at all. The Talmud's approach reveals that all Mitzvot require action. Ony when the reverence is translated into deed is the Mitzvah fulfilled. Moral: Action is the basic fomat of all Mitzvot. Even Mitzvot of the heart -- like belief and love of HaShem -- must be expressed in deed in order to be fulfilled.
Application: Reflect on the verse, "Every man shall fear his mother and his father". Internalize the message of the verse. Express your feeling of love and respect for your parents through specific and appropriate deeds. (Based on the commentary of Da'as Torah, Rav Yerucham Levovitz ) The Salant Foundation is currently looking for a Shul or community to partner with us in sharing the merit of the unique and important Salant Kollel. There are practical and easy ways (such as adoptakollel.org) to create a special mutual relationship between the Kollel and a Shul or community. If you think your Shul or community or workplace might want to participate in supporting the Salant Kollel, please contact Rabbi Zvi Miller at salantorg@gmail.com, and we will discuss how to implement your idea. Thank you! | 
