The House of Straw \ Parashat Beha'alotcha
Do’eg HaAdomi was the chief judge and the most brilliant Torah sage in the generation of King David. Despite all of his extraordinary qualities, he eventually fell from grace. The Midrash (BaMidbar Rabah 18:17) likens him to a “house full of straw.” As time passes, the straw pokes through the cracks in the walls, revealing the worthless contents of the house. Likewise, the arrogance of Do’eg, rose to the surface for all to see.
What was the “straw” of Do’eg that poked through the holes? Do’eg referred to King David as “ben Yishai,” the son of Yishai, instead of calling him by his first name.
Is this seemingly minor social imperfection sufficient grounds to overturn Do’egs good reputation?
The Torah teaches us the physical symptoms that reveal the state of spiritual purity and impurity. For instance, certain skin blemishes indicate levels of impurity caused by arrogance and slander. Similarly, Do’egs lack of respect for King David was a symptom of his base nature that lay beneath the facade of greatness.
In light of the above lesson, when addressing another person, always use his proper name. Avoid all nicknames or impersonal references.
The slightest misdeed or improper character trait can disrupt our spiritual balance. Remember how Miriam’s few improper words about Moshe, caused her entire body to be covered with tza’arat - a skin disorder.
How do we monitor our inner self, so that we keep track of our spiritual condition? The daily study of Mussar is the antidote to the yetzer hora — the negative impulse. It sensitises us so that we can recognise our flaws. Also, it endows us with the capability and wisdom to cleanse our souls to attain the state of absolute holiness and purity.
(Based on Da’as Torah of Rav Yerucham Levovitz)
