The Goodly Fruits
חטאים תרדף רעה, ואת הצדיקים ישלם טוב
“Good shall be paid to the righteous” (Mishlie 13:21).
This verse is elucidated by a fitting parable.
The king appointed a team of servants to tend the royal garden. He assigned each one a specific task to maximise the bounty and beauty of the fruits.
The king warned his servants not to eat the fruits of a poisonous tree that was growing in the orchard. Also growing in the garden was a delicious, wholesome fruit tree. The king encouraged his servants to partake of these fruits to their heart’s desire.
One day a group of servants came upon the poisonous tree. Despite the king’s warnings, they foolishly ate its fruits. In a few moments they fell lifeless to the ground. The other servants ate from the tree that yielded the wholesome fruit. It’s taste was scrumptious and sweet, and it was bursting with energy and healthy nutrients. They never felt such vim and vigor!
After they completed their tasks the king was very pleased that they abided by his instructions. He gave each servant a bar of gold as a reward for eating the goodly fruit.
This parable illustrates the powerful effects of sins and Mitzvot. The natural consequence of sin is mortal danger. HaShem warns us to stay away from these “poisonous fruits” for our own protection. Likewise, the natural consequences of Mitzvot are vitality, life, and health.
Since Mitzvot benefit those who perform them, why does HaShem grant Eternal Reward for their fulfillment? Should a person be rewarded for doing something that serves his best interest?
In HaShem’s abundant kindness and love for us, not only does He reveal the good path, even more, He rewards us with Eternal Life for the performance of our Mitzvot!
As you perform each Mitzvah, envision that it is a delightful feast for your soul, and also provides you with eternal joy in the World to Come.
May we enjoy the “goodly fruit” of Mitzvot and delight in their eternal reward in Gan Eden.
(Based on the commentary of the Malbim)
