| “The Name of HaShem is a mighty fortress; the Tzadik runs to it and is safeguarded.” (Mishlei 18:10)
When a Tzadik runs to fulfill the Divine Will, he relies on the Name of HaShem and does not stumble. An average person carefully checks for potential obstacles before proceeding, seeking safety through caution, but a Tzadik possesses unwavering faith that HaShem will protect him from harm. Even if a mishap occurs, he trusts that HaShem will shield him from injury.
In his later years, Rabbi Yisrael Salanter, of blessed memory, lived in Paris and devoted himself tirelessly to spreading Torah and Mussar among the assimilated Jews of the city. On one occasion, he slipped and fell down two flights of stairs. The fall left him in critical condition, and the community members placed him in a bed so he could rest without disturbance. HaShem had compassion upon him, and he made a full recovery.
Afterwards, he remarked: “My heart felt no fear whatsoever. My presence in Paris was free of any material motive. My sole intention was to fulfill the Divine Will. Paris could not harm me!”
Today: The faith of a Tzadik creates a sphere of Divine protection. His steadfast trust in HaShem empowers him to confidently and energetically pursue the fulfillment of HaShem’s Will. A Tzadik fears nothing because he knows that nothing can obstruct the Divine purpose. Moreover, he knows that his confidence in HaShem places him under HaShem’s protective shelter. Place your full trust in HaShem, and know that you are protected within the Mighty Fortress of HaShem. (Based on the commentary of Rabbeinu Yonah.)
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