D'var Torah: “Rabbi Yochanon said in the name of Rabbi Yosi: ‘When a person admonishes himself, it is far more effective than if someone assaulted him several times.’” The following parable sheds light on these enigmatic words: A promiscuous married woman consorted with many paramours. Subsequently, when she finds trouble, she calls out to her “friends” for help, but they pay no attention to her. She responds, “I will return to my original husband.” Throughout history, Klal Yisrael repeatedly abandoned HaShem in place of idols, material pursuits, and assimilation. When HaShem sent them hardships, they called out to their deities to no avail. Finally, they realized they have no recourse other than to return to HaShem.
Moral: The realization that HaShem, alone, is our Father and our King inspires us to embrace the ways of Torah fully and commit ourselves to fulfill the will of HaShem.
Application: Detach from all false beliefs and deceptive pleasures. Place your heartfelt trust and faith in HaShem, alone. Receive HaShem’s choicest blessings, protection, as well as your share in the eternal World to Come.
(Brachot 7a)
