SF -- The Lifegiving Power of Awe

sexta-feira, 17 de novembro de 2023

SF -- The Lifegiving Power of Awe

Our Torah tells us that Yitzchak Avinu feared on two occasions. Firstly, at the "Binding of Yitzchak," the fear of death gripped Yitzchak so intensely that his soul left his body. Secondly, "Yitzchak feared greatly" upon realizing that he almost mistakenly gave the blessings to Esau instead of Yaacov. Even though the second fear was more intense than the first, Yitzchak's soul did not leave his body upon learning that he almost mistakenly gave the blessings to Esau. If Yitzchak's fear of giving the blessings to the wrong son was more intense than the fear of death, why didn't this fear also cause his soul to leave his body? The fear of the Akeda was the fear of being killed by the sword. Whereas, Yitzchak's fear of almost giving the blessings to Esau was awakened by his awe of HaShem.

The awe of HaShem does not endanger our health. Conversely, it enhances our life, as the verse states, "The awe of HaShem increases life." What's more, the awe of HaShem awakens great joy within the soul, as per the verse, "Rejoice in trembling before HaShem."

Rejoice in seeking to attain the awe of HaShem and the pursuit of good character traits. Be confident in knowing that the correct Mussar study never causes sadness. Instead, Mussar study and the pursuit of the awe of HaShem awakens supreme joy, wisdom, and fulfillment.

(Based on the commentary of Rav Nosson Watchfogel)