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Nachum Ish Gam Zu was a saintly and righteous sage who lived nearly two thousand years ago, during the period of the Tannaim. He became renowned not only for his deep Torah wisdom but for his extraordinary trust in HaShem under all circumstances. His name itself became a symbol of his unwavering perspective: Ish Gam Zu—“the man of ‘this too.’”
Whenever something seemingly unfortunate or painful befell him, Nachum would respond with complete composure and confidence, declaring, “Gam zu l’tovah”—“This too is for the good.” He did not say this out of denial or passive resignation. Rather, he possessed a profound awareness that since HaShem is the ultimate source of absolute goodness, everything He does—whether or not we understand it—is inherently good.
Time and again, events that initially appeared disastrous would unfold to reveal unexpected blessings. His firm declaration of faith would open the gates for the hidden goodness to manifest. For Nachum, life’s trials were not stumbling blocks, but invitations to recognize the deeper, often concealed kindness of the Creator.
When we train ourselves to meet adversity with faith—believing that HaShem’s goodness underlies even the harshest moments—we begin to transform the nature of the challenge itself. Our trust allows that hidden goodness to surface, often in ways we could not have foreseen.
Today: The next time you are faced with an unexpected difficulty—a canceled plan, a sudden loss, a frustrating delay—pause and say with sincerity: “Gam zu l’tovah—this too is for the good.” By doing so, you align yourself with the deep truth of HaShem’s infinite compassion and draw closer to His light. In that connection, the bitter becomes sweet, and darkness gives way to clarity. Based on Tomer Devorah by Rav Moshe Cordovero, Chapter Five
Picture Yaacov Avinu arriving at Lavan’s house with nothing but the clothes on his back. Despite Lavan’s repeated attempts to cheat him, Yaacov ultimately emerged with tremendous wealth and prosperity—all through HaShem’s blessing. Now imagine HaShem’s blessings flowing into every corner of your life—your health, your livelihood, your relationships—filling you with joy and abundance. (Based on the commentary of the Chofetz Chaim on the Torah)
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