The Archer and the Lion \ Ben Ish Chai
“Rabban Yochanon ben Zakai said, If you studied much Torah, do not take credit for yourself, because you were created for the purpose of learning Torah” (Avot 2:9)
A man was walking though the forest and suddenly he came face to face with a roaring lion. He had no weapon except for a simple walking stick. He raised the stick as if it were a bow and arrow, and hoped to scare away the lion.
Unbeknownst to him an archer was perched high on a tree behind him. Just as the man on the ground pretended to shoot an arrow, the archer shot a real arrow that pierced the heart of the lion. The lion fell lifeless to the ground, and the man was overjoyed, imagining that his stick had magical powers. He kissed the stick and sang its praises.
The archer called out to him, “Don’t be foolish! Your stick has no special powers. I took mercy on you and shot the arrow from up here in this tree!
When a person performs a Mitzvah he has no power to earn a spiritual merit. He presumes that he is elevating himself. In truth, it is HaShem, Who bestows holiness upon him through the sanctity of the Mitzvah.
The same concept applies to the study of Torah. The power of speech, which is more elevated than a physical act, activates Torah learning. Nevertheless the sanctification of the person who studies Torah is a gift from HaShem, “Who sanctifies us with His commandments.”
In light of this Rabban Yochanon taught, “If you study much Torah, do not take credit for yourself.” Realize that the wisdom and holiness that you received is a gift from HaShem.
As you study Torah, envision that HaShem is blessing you with holiness and wisdom.
(Based on Moshol V’Nimshol of the Ben Ish Chai)
