Advice to My Children
Generally this whole site could be listed as "advice to my children." That's how it started anyway. Here though, I've gathered brief statements or aphorisms that I've tried to share with my kids. Over the years, I've tried to learn and pass on the lessons to my kids.They mostly come in short statements, some of which you have to think about for a second before realizing the full impact. They're like Proverbs, which were also a father's advice to his son. For convenience' sake I've started gathering them together in topical order and here I've placed the topics in alphabetical order.
ABORTION
I have always found the fact that partial birth abortion has largely found “justification” from arguments formulated by Judaic rabbis to be horrifyingly ironic in view of the fact that it seemed to be the turning point for our people in Egypt (Exodus 1:16-17). It is important to note on which side of that particular fence Hashem fell (v.21)! It is also informative that the process went from attempted forced contraception, to abortion, to partial birth abortion, to explicit infanticide (v.22).
Nazis were pro-choice too. They too wanted to choose who lived and who died. They too thought it best to rid themselves of inconvenient humans.
Nazis were pro-choice too. They too wanted to choose who lived and who died. They too thought it best to rid themselves of inconvenient humans.
ADVICE
We often forget that we are not the only ones to have gone through our circumstances. There is nothing new under the sun. What we are going through is common to man. Find those who have “been there, done that” successfully and pick their brains.
Some of the best people from whom to seek advice are those who have failed and recovered.
When you are looking for advice, don’t go to the worldly. Don’t go to those who are unsuccessful in life. Don’t go to those who will just tell you what you want to hear. Find the godly. Find men and women of character. Find people who are strong and have a servant’s heart. They will guide you well. If you listen to fools, your destruction is assured.
If you truly want to be the best that you can be, you need to envision yourself as a wise king. Surround yourself with good advisors. Search for the godliest, wisest people you can find and consciously make them your council.
Work hard to know what you’re talking about. Don’t give out advice left and right. Be slow to speak. But when you do speak, make it count. Make it good. Make it scriptural.
Even criticism from the wicked usually has some grain of truth to it. They rarely make up their lies whole cloth. Your job is to sift through it and find what that grain of truth is. Your job is to find out what God can teach you – even through undeserved criticism.
Some of the best people from whom to seek advice are those who have failed and recovered.
When you are looking for advice, don’t go to the worldly. Don’t go to those who are unsuccessful in life. Don’t go to those who will just tell you what you want to hear. Find the godly. Find men and women of character. Find people who are strong and have a servant’s heart. They will guide you well. If you listen to fools, your destruction is assured.
If you truly want to be the best that you can be, you need to envision yourself as a wise king. Surround yourself with good advisors. Search for the godliest, wisest people you can find and consciously make them your council.
Work hard to know what you’re talking about. Don’t give out advice left and right. Be slow to speak. But when you do speak, make it count. Make it good. Make it scriptural.
Even criticism from the wicked usually has some grain of truth to it. They rarely make up their lies whole cloth. Your job is to sift through it and find what that grain of truth is. Your job is to find out what God can teach you – even through undeserved criticism.
CHEERFULNESS
Develop cheerful independence. While it is true that we are social creatures, everything in your life that requires another’s help or attendance creates points of vulnerability and minimizes flexibility. Remember that for every strength another human brings, he also brings five weaknesses.
We can determine the reality of our love for the Master by our cheerfulness in the accomplishment of our assigned duties.
There are some who practice righteousness, but do so in a stiff and uncomfortable manner which drives others away. Be righteous, but not self-righteous. Be holy, but not so holy that you are unattractive to sinners. Remember that you are to be an ambassador to the Lowlanders. You are to show them the advantages of Hashem’s mitzvoth. In your day to day life let your righteousness be an easy and comfortable thing.
Do not be content to merely refrain from crossness. Instead, avoid crossness by actively pursuing love, joy, and charity.
When unsure if anger is the proper response, err on the side of good nature and patience. If you are wrong, at least you are showing your desire to obey the One who commanded you to forgive as you were forgiven.
Doing one’s duty is insufficient. It must be done willingly, enthusiastically, cheerfully, and as a deliberate sacrifice of praise to the Lord (Ephesians 6:6-8; Colossians 3:23). Precisely because the act is a sacrifice, it must be done to the best of one’s ability every single time (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
To live cheerfully one must not meddle with many things. To do few but noble and necessary things well is essential to human cheerfulness.
We can determine the reality of our love for the Master by our cheerfulness in the accomplishment of our assigned duties.
There are some who practice righteousness, but do so in a stiff and uncomfortable manner which drives others away. Be righteous, but not self-righteous. Be holy, but not so holy that you are unattractive to sinners. Remember that you are to be an ambassador to the Lowlanders. You are to show them the advantages of Hashem’s mitzvoth. In your day to day life let your righteousness be an easy and comfortable thing.
Do not be content to merely refrain from crossness. Instead, avoid crossness by actively pursuing love, joy, and charity.
When unsure if anger is the proper response, err on the side of good nature and patience. If you are wrong, at least you are showing your desire to obey the One who commanded you to forgive as you were forgiven.
Doing one’s duty is insufficient. It must be done willingly, enthusiastically, cheerfully, and as a deliberate sacrifice of praise to the Lord (Ephesians 6:6-8; Colossians 3:23). Precisely because the act is a sacrifice, it must be done to the best of one’s ability every single time (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
To live cheerfully one must not meddle with many things. To do few but noble and necessary things well is essential to human cheerfulness.
COMMITMENT
It is not failure to succeed, but failure to try that defines us.
If a way is not readily at hand, make one.
Great minds purpose; small minds wish.
Think deeply. Examine issues carefully and deliberately before you act. Once you have examined, deliberated, and determined, act without hesitation and do not waver from your goal unless Adonai Himself informs you otherwise.
It is impossible for a finite worm of a man to fully grasp an infinite God. Remain committed to Adonai but humbly flexible in your understanding of His ways.
Do not hastily give over the search of a matter as one easy to be satisfied with sudden notions and apprehensions.
Whatever your skill, temperament, and opportunities have made you, strive to be your best every day, turning each act into a sacrifice worthy of God. Then you will need to act neither arrogantly nor in a servile manner toward men.
Satan is no quitter and he will keep on fighting long after all the humans have declared his defeat. Many careless Christians have won the battle but lost the war because of this trait of his.
Do not overly concern yourself about what to give or how much to give. Give yourself and these will be made clear.
If a way is not readily at hand, make one.
Great minds purpose; small minds wish.
Think deeply. Examine issues carefully and deliberately before you act. Once you have examined, deliberated, and determined, act without hesitation and do not waver from your goal unless Adonai Himself informs you otherwise.
It is impossible for a finite worm of a man to fully grasp an infinite God. Remain committed to Adonai but humbly flexible in your understanding of His ways.
Do not hastily give over the search of a matter as one easy to be satisfied with sudden notions and apprehensions.
Whatever your skill, temperament, and opportunities have made you, strive to be your best every day, turning each act into a sacrifice worthy of God. Then you will need to act neither arrogantly nor in a servile manner toward men.
Satan is no quitter and he will keep on fighting long after all the humans have declared his defeat. Many careless Christians have won the battle but lost the war because of this trait of his.
Do not overly concern yourself about what to give or how much to give. Give yourself and these will be made clear.
COUNSEL
Strive to be worthy of the title “counselor”. To be effective, shame requires some respect for those who disapprove; otherwise disapproval evokes only anger or contempt.
In giving counsel be cautious. Listen well and see much. Then set aside the doubtful things and only speak carefully on those things of which you are certain. This will minimize the need for apologies. In many words lies much sin. Minimizing occasions of embarrassment and apology will soon give you the reputation of wisdom.
These three things would lead you to refuse counsel. 1) You feel you are above counsel; 2) you feel you are beyond counsel; 3) you are afraid of what counsel will reveal.
A man who refuses to think is about as susceptible to help as a decapitated man.
I think that it is remarkable that people have accused Christianity of holding back critical thought, seeing as it is the Messiah who promised that the truth would set us free. It was the God of the Bible who said, “Come let us reason together.” It is not God who opposes clear thinking as much as it is false prophets who claim to speak on His behalf but for their own profit.
The wise can learn from anyone. They will not simply take a man at his word, but neither will they set aside wise words simply because the source is not backing the words up with a righteous life.
In giving counsel be cautious. Listen well and see much. Then set aside the doubtful things and only speak carefully on those things of which you are certain. This will minimize the need for apologies. In many words lies much sin. Minimizing occasions of embarrassment and apology will soon give you the reputation of wisdom.
These three things would lead you to refuse counsel. 1) You feel you are above counsel; 2) you feel you are beyond counsel; 3) you are afraid of what counsel will reveal.
A man who refuses to think is about as susceptible to help as a decapitated man.
I think that it is remarkable that people have accused Christianity of holding back critical thought, seeing as it is the Messiah who promised that the truth would set us free. It was the God of the Bible who said, “Come let us reason together.” It is not God who opposes clear thinking as much as it is false prophets who claim to speak on His behalf but for their own profit.
The wise can learn from anyone. They will not simply take a man at his word, but neither will they set aside wise words simply because the source is not backing the words up with a righteous life.
COURAGE
Do not demean yourself with false humility saying “I am unworthy to speak” when something fit and needful must be said. God can use an ant to eat an elephant if need be. Say what must be said; do what must be done.
“Do not fear!” says the fool. The wise respond “Fear but do what is right anyway.”
On both the battle field and in morality, boldness comes from holding the high ground.
In a sin-filled, unrighteous world filled with injustice and hatred, the path requiring the most courage is the straightest one.
My personal experience is that fear, fear of losing one’s cherished beliefs or of finding that years of investment have led to nothing more than a dead end is the single greatest inhibition to truly critical thinking. For some it is fear of discovering that their beloved leaders are frauds. For others is it fear of the demands of an honest and just life.
A mere breath away exist boundless universes, gleaming in nascent perfection, awaiting conquerors. Unlimited resources, purity of spirit and heroic endeavors…all lie at hand for the soul sufficiently intrepid to explore its own mind.
“Do not fear!” says the fool. The wise respond “Fear but do what is right anyway.”
On both the battle field and in morality, boldness comes from holding the high ground.
In a sin-filled, unrighteous world filled with injustice and hatred, the path requiring the most courage is the straightest one.
My personal experience is that fear, fear of losing one’s cherished beliefs or of finding that years of investment have led to nothing more than a dead end is the single greatest inhibition to truly critical thinking. For some it is fear of discovering that their beloved leaders are frauds. For others is it fear of the demands of an honest and just life.
A mere breath away exist boundless universes, gleaming in nascent perfection, awaiting conquerors. Unlimited resources, purity of spirit and heroic endeavors…all lie at hand for the soul sufficiently intrepid to explore its own mind.
COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE
Do not worry about finding a suitable mate. Concern yourself with being a suitable mate.
Do not hurry to find a mate. But once you have found your mate, hurry to get to the altar.
A person will gladly sacrifice to gain and keep that which they truly love. If the will to sacrifice is absent – so is the will to love.
Do not hurry to find a mate. But once you have found your mate, hurry to get to the altar.
A person will gladly sacrifice to gain and keep that which they truly love. If the will to sacrifice is absent – so is the will to love.
DAYAN - JUDGE
There are four cardinal sins that must find no place among dayanim: foregone conclusions, arbitrary decisions, obstinacy, and egoism.
The life of the tzaddik, whether acting as admor (leader/teacher), posek (one who answers religious questions) or dayan (judge), can be frustrating. Often the people may spring forth leaves but fail to proceed to flower. Sometimes a flower may bloom but the fruit does not appear. However, if the tzaddik fails to plant the seeds and tend the weeds, a failed crop is assured.
Whether all people love or hate a man – each case must be carefully examined before a righteous judgment may be made. The Messiah was unalterably good…but sufficiently hated to die. Many famous people are universally loved…but wicked enough to deserve hell. To be either hated or loved for the right cause – that’s what should be considered.
A free market economy would work great – if we actually had a free market. The humanist error is that an educated human will make a rational decision. That would work great – if we were actually rational.
You will not change people by simply telling them the truth. You cannot educate people into morality. Yet, you must tell them the truth. You must educate them. Just don’t count on them rationally accepting the truth and acting appropriately on it.
The life of the tzaddik, whether acting as admor (leader/teacher), posek (one who answers religious questions) or dayan (judge), can be frustrating. Often the people may spring forth leaves but fail to proceed to flower. Sometimes a flower may bloom but the fruit does not appear. However, if the tzaddik fails to plant the seeds and tend the weeds, a failed crop is assured.
Whether all people love or hate a man – each case must be carefully examined before a righteous judgment may be made. The Messiah was unalterably good…but sufficiently hated to die. Many famous people are universally loved…but wicked enough to deserve hell. To be either hated or loved for the right cause – that’s what should be considered.
A free market economy would work great – if we actually had a free market. The humanist error is that an educated human will make a rational decision. That would work great – if we were actually rational.
You will not change people by simply telling them the truth. You cannot educate people into morality. Yet, you must tell them the truth. You must educate them. Just don’t count on them rationally accepting the truth and acting appropriately on it.
DUTY
No one is insignificant who strives to do his duty.
D'VEKUT
Do your best to bring whatever meager love your sin-sick soul may muster to bear upon your God; and mean Adonai rather than His gifts. Beware! Every angel of God will encourage such effort and hurry to your aid; but every minion of hell will scream with rage and employ every means available to stop you.
Seek not for peace in the hearts of other troubled men. Seek not for answers in minds equally perplexed. These things can only be found in two places – within God and within yourself. Without d’vekut we can achieve nothing. In d’vekut all can be accomplished.
Every day take some time, with as much honest transparency as the human heart is capable of, to lay open your soul to your God: all your sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, and desires – everything. Then, do your best to leave them there on the altar and go live in your Master’s joy.
How could anyone think their happiness is tied to the conceits of other men; subject to the vagaries of human fads? Why should anything external and ephemeral distract you from the one true Constant in your life?
Regardless of your chosen vocation, no matter how trivial it may seem, transform it into the pursuit of God. In this manner, like the needle of a compass, your spirit will cease its wandering and find its true direction.
All men long to retire to some private place for the sake of simplicity and communion. However, at any moment, no matter how bustling your environment may be, it is within your grasp to retire to the inner temple, a place of quietude and rest, and there find d’vekut – the ultimate communion.
God is not someone that we should turn to only in times of trial. Like any good relationship, we must invest in the good times and then expect returns in the bad times.
You cannot expect to ignore God’s Word, to set aside His advice, and then have Him come running to your rescue when you suffer the consequences of your decisions.
As Moshe’s face shone as a result of time spent in the presence of God, so too our public lives will reflect the positive effects of private worship.
Seek not for peace in the hearts of other troubled men. Seek not for answers in minds equally perplexed. These things can only be found in two places – within God and within yourself. Without d’vekut we can achieve nothing. In d’vekut all can be accomplished.
Every day take some time, with as much honest transparency as the human heart is capable of, to lay open your soul to your God: all your sins, temptations, difficulties, sorrows, fears, hopes, and desires – everything. Then, do your best to leave them there on the altar and go live in your Master’s joy.
How could anyone think their happiness is tied to the conceits of other men; subject to the vagaries of human fads? Why should anything external and ephemeral distract you from the one true Constant in your life?
Regardless of your chosen vocation, no matter how trivial it may seem, transform it into the pursuit of God. In this manner, like the needle of a compass, your spirit will cease its wandering and find its true direction.
All men long to retire to some private place for the sake of simplicity and communion. However, at any moment, no matter how bustling your environment may be, it is within your grasp to retire to the inner temple, a place of quietude and rest, and there find d’vekut – the ultimate communion.
God is not someone that we should turn to only in times of trial. Like any good relationship, we must invest in the good times and then expect returns in the bad times.
You cannot expect to ignore God’s Word, to set aside His advice, and then have Him come running to your rescue when you suffer the consequences of your decisions.
As Moshe’s face shone as a result of time spent in the presence of God, so too our public lives will reflect the positive effects of private worship.
EDUCATION
Dewey’s dream of self and social improvement through graduated secular education and gradual social reform has proven to be as bankrupt a solution as Rousseau’s. Same old idea – same old result.
In regards to education, it is important to remember that it is the sharpened tool that works most efficiently.
He is best educated who is most useful.
Most people are taught to educate themselves with a mind to gain personal advantage. Classic education had in mind the perfection of the self. Each one must decide which education will bring the most eternal benefits.
Value a good education and don’t begrudge any legitimate expense that may be involved in getting the best you can afford.
Read diligently, being satisfied with neither light and superficial nor “popular” knowledge.
Cherish the ancient ways while simultaneously creating new ones. Honor kabalah, but strive for worthy masoret.
Learning without thinking is a waste of time. Thinking unsupported by learning is even worse.
The one who, from day to day, remembers what he has not yet attained and, from month to month, remembers what he has attained, can be said to truly love learning.
One may fast, even go without sleep, while studying – but if no learning takes place; if there is no change in one’s character and behavior – it is an exercise in futility.
Honor all true rabbis without upbraiding those that are not so.
There are two books that Hashem wrote; two books that never lie. They are the Holy Scriptures and nature. You must balance these two. Let the Scriptures temper and moderate science. Allow science to protect you from ignorant dogmatism.
In regards to education, it is important to remember that it is the sharpened tool that works most efficiently.
He is best educated who is most useful.
Most people are taught to educate themselves with a mind to gain personal advantage. Classic education had in mind the perfection of the self. Each one must decide which education will bring the most eternal benefits.
Value a good education and don’t begrudge any legitimate expense that may be involved in getting the best you can afford.
Read diligently, being satisfied with neither light and superficial nor “popular” knowledge.
Cherish the ancient ways while simultaneously creating new ones. Honor kabalah, but strive for worthy masoret.
Learning without thinking is a waste of time. Thinking unsupported by learning is even worse.
The one who, from day to day, remembers what he has not yet attained and, from month to month, remembers what he has attained, can be said to truly love learning.
One may fast, even go without sleep, while studying – but if no learning takes place; if there is no change in one’s character and behavior – it is an exercise in futility.
Honor all true rabbis without upbraiding those that are not so.
There are two books that Hashem wrote; two books that never lie. They are the Holy Scriptures and nature. You must balance these two. Let the Scriptures temper and moderate science. Allow science to protect you from ignorant dogmatism.
ETHICS
“Moral values” cannot be reduced to one or two contentious social issues. We need a wider and deeper vision of Christian ethics. We need a consistent ethic, a “seamless garment” of human life. There needs to be an integration of personal faith and social gospel.
The underlying philosophy that governs Adonaism is simple. Allow your passion for the Lord to be demonstrated by obedient, ethical living. Actually living this simple philosophy can sometimes be devilishly complex however. This stems from an equal mix of our yetzer hara and ignorance.
We must submit ourselves to the Lord Jesus Christ and then demonstrate our grateful loyalty to our King through ethical living (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Very few people actually read the Scriptures for tips on how to live day to day. I find it significant that every time a devotional of mine that deals with economic, social,l or ecological justice has appeared on the net, the number of hits dropped considerably.
The underlying philosophy that governs Adonaism is simple. Allow your passion for the Lord to be demonstrated by obedient, ethical living. Actually living this simple philosophy can sometimes be devilishly complex however. This stems from an equal mix of our yetzer hara and ignorance.
We must submit ourselves to the Lord Jesus Christ and then demonstrate our grateful loyalty to our King through ethical living (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Very few people actually read the Scriptures for tips on how to live day to day. I find it significant that every time a devotional of mine that deals with economic, social,l or ecological justice has appeared on the net, the number of hits dropped considerably.
EQUANIMITY
To live is to serve Christ on Earth. To die is to serve Christ in heaven. Let each be the same for you. Desire neither to die soon nor late. Desire simply to serve well wherever you are.
Whatever happens, whether grief or joy, ask yourself “Is this sufficient cause to cease being just? Should I stop being moderate or generous or wise or honest because of this?” The one who can be these things regardless of circumstance is truly free.
As a lighthouse shines all the more brightly the darker and wilder the storm grows, let your life shine brightest in the storms of life.
When tempted to worry, consider whether or not you have done all you could, and if not, actually do it. Then let events unfold as Yah deems best and focus on nothing more than your duty in each circumstance.
Abstain from all passions that cannot be partaken of lawfully but show moderate condescension to other men’s failings.
Endeavor to have power over yourself. Don’t allow yourself to get carried away. Be cheerful and courageous in all circumstances. Love mildness, moderation, and gravity.
Develop a healthy sense of cynicism. Never be shocked or dismayed by any human behavior. There is nothing so absurd that it has not at some point been gravely pronounced as truth. There is no sin so vile that, once imagined, has not been seized upon as the greatest virtue by some sin-sick soul somewhere.
From God are all things and in Him do all things subsist and to Him to all things tend. Therefore, let whatever is expedient to the Lord be expedient to you. Consider nothing unseasonable or out of date that which He considers timely. Strive to consider whatever He brings to you a healthy challenge.
Has anyone offended you? It is against themselves that they have acted. Consider. Has any real, lasting harm occurred to you? Then stay your heart. Return to your peace. That is the greatest revenge on your enemies, that they assaulted you to no avail.
Whatever happens, whether grief or joy, ask yourself “Is this sufficient cause to cease being just? Should I stop being moderate or generous or wise or honest because of this?” The one who can be these things regardless of circumstance is truly free.
As a lighthouse shines all the more brightly the darker and wilder the storm grows, let your life shine brightest in the storms of life.
When tempted to worry, consider whether or not you have done all you could, and if not, actually do it. Then let events unfold as Yah deems best and focus on nothing more than your duty in each circumstance.
Abstain from all passions that cannot be partaken of lawfully but show moderate condescension to other men’s failings.
Endeavor to have power over yourself. Don’t allow yourself to get carried away. Be cheerful and courageous in all circumstances. Love mildness, moderation, and gravity.
Develop a healthy sense of cynicism. Never be shocked or dismayed by any human behavior. There is nothing so absurd that it has not at some point been gravely pronounced as truth. There is no sin so vile that, once imagined, has not been seized upon as the greatest virtue by some sin-sick soul somewhere.
From God are all things and in Him do all things subsist and to Him to all things tend. Therefore, let whatever is expedient to the Lord be expedient to you. Consider nothing unseasonable or out of date that which He considers timely. Strive to consider whatever He brings to you a healthy challenge.
Has anyone offended you? It is against themselves that they have acted. Consider. Has any real, lasting harm occurred to you? Then stay your heart. Return to your peace. That is the greatest revenge on your enemies, that they assaulted you to no avail.
EZRACH'
Remember that though you are in “Babylon” you are not of “Babylon”. You have a sacred obligation to remain a people apart. (He. 11:13; Ro. 12:1-2)
You must be demarcated from unbelievers not only by creed but by mode of living. Your worship, your home, even the smallest, most common acts should be marked by the presence of God.
Since the dawn of time there have been many kingdoms great and small but there is only one kingdom, one nation, called the Kingdom of God, which has stood the test of time. This holy nation has survived shocks that would have destroyed any lesser, temporal dominion. Whatever its state; whatever glory or obscurity it may have had; however many or few subjects it may have had – whether a single family or a myriad of adherents – it has borne the distinct qualities that have separated it as a peculiar nation, destined to outlast all others.
You must be demarcated from unbelievers not only by creed but by mode of living. Your worship, your home, even the smallest, most common acts should be marked by the presence of God.
Since the dawn of time there have been many kingdoms great and small but there is only one kingdom, one nation, called the Kingdom of God, which has stood the test of time. This holy nation has survived shocks that would have destroyed any lesser, temporal dominion. Whatever its state; whatever glory or obscurity it may have had; however many or few subjects it may have had – whether a single family or a myriad of adherents – it has borne the distinct qualities that have separated it as a peculiar nation, destined to outlast all others.
FAITH
Like everything else, faith, when practiced, becomes greater.
Worry makes the problem bigger.
Memory test: what did you worry about this time last year?
Faith is not tested so much when the cupboard is full as when it is bare. It is in those defining moments that our true character is revealed. The crisis is the crucible.
Worry makes the problem bigger.
Memory test: what did you worry about this time last year?
Faith is not tested so much when the cupboard is full as when it is bare. It is in those defining moments that our true character is revealed. The crisis is the crucible.
FEAR OF THE LORD
Know the God of your father and serve Him with a perfect heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches the depths of the human heart and He understands the imaginations of our thoughts. If you seek Him, you will find Him but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever.
Doctors will prescribe this pill for one patient, that therapy for another, surgery for a third, or amputation for a fourth and we submit to their superior knowledge. Why do we then resist when all-knowing God assigns this one easy and that one difficult circumstances?
Do not rile against the circumstances that the Great Healer has brought about. If they are pleasant, it is for your encouragement. If they are difficult, it is for your education. Pleasant or not, His desire is always your ultimate good.
Strive to live in such a manner that upon your death Hashem may say of you as He did of father Noah: “This one was a righteous man, blameless among his contemporaries; he walked with Me. He did everything I commanded him.” (Genesis 6:9, 22)
Fear God and obey His mitzvoth. The one who insults Elohim is left with no one to whom he can pray. He is of all men most hopeless.
Adonaic culture has as a goal to make and keep human life human in the world. But in order to do that we have realized the necessity of focusing on the divine.
The one who truly fears the Lord need fear nothing else.
Match your religious affectations with works of true charity lest God and man disbelieve you.
The one who acts in accordance with God’s will, shall be hated by the wicked, feared by most (who consider him too zealous), and loved by the few righteous. The one who acts in accordance with his own will, shall be hated by the wicked (who seek their own advantage too), feared by most, and despised by the few righteous. The one who vacillates between God’s and his will, shall be despised by the wicked, ignored by most, and despised by the few righteous. Far better then, my child, to fear God and do His will at all times.
Do not fear hearing the will of God. Fear not complying with what you’ve learned before you hear more.
Neither be a superstitious worshipper of God nor a mindless pleaser of men. Love God as He presents Himself, not as you would have Him be. On the other hand, be lovingly cynical about men.
If you tremble at the thought of persecution, consider the pains of martyrdom. If you fear the pains of martyrdom, consider the pains of hell. Fear God and you will be granted victory over the second death; grace for martyrdom and courage for persecution.
Any prayer that contradicts Scripture, any confession of sin made glibly, any petition, no matter how passionately put, that God could not possibly grant without contradicting His character or Word, is worse than wasted breath. It is an attack on His person and reputation.
Make every effort towards the creation, maintenance, and preservation of peace but not to the point where you cease hating what God hates. These should be resisted first in one’s self and secondarily in society.
You are not your own. You were bought at great price. To the degree that you understand and live that fact is the degree to which you will gain wisdom and favor with both God and men.
In the life of the talmid (disciple) every act should be consecrated to the glory and worship of God. Every act that, due to its nature, cannot be so dedicated, should be cast off as a spiritual cancer.
Endeavor to consider each thought, each word, and each act in light of the fact that you will one day have to answer for it to Yahweh Shaphat (Matthew 12:36).
Live as though you’ve already seen the blessings of heaven and the torments of hell.
Life is short. Endeavor to wisely steward every moment. Let sobriety rule all things, whether it be recreation or work, for soon you will answer for them.
Doctors will prescribe this pill for one patient, that therapy for another, surgery for a third, or amputation for a fourth and we submit to their superior knowledge. Why do we then resist when all-knowing God assigns this one easy and that one difficult circumstances?
Do not rile against the circumstances that the Great Healer has brought about. If they are pleasant, it is for your encouragement. If they are difficult, it is for your education. Pleasant or not, His desire is always your ultimate good.
Strive to live in such a manner that upon your death Hashem may say of you as He did of father Noah: “This one was a righteous man, blameless among his contemporaries; he walked with Me. He did everything I commanded him.” (Genesis 6:9, 22)
Fear God and obey His mitzvoth. The one who insults Elohim is left with no one to whom he can pray. He is of all men most hopeless.
Adonaic culture has as a goal to make and keep human life human in the world. But in order to do that we have realized the necessity of focusing on the divine.
The one who truly fears the Lord need fear nothing else.
Match your religious affectations with works of true charity lest God and man disbelieve you.
The one who acts in accordance with God’s will, shall be hated by the wicked, feared by most (who consider him too zealous), and loved by the few righteous. The one who acts in accordance with his own will, shall be hated by the wicked (who seek their own advantage too), feared by most, and despised by the few righteous. The one who vacillates between God’s and his will, shall be despised by the wicked, ignored by most, and despised by the few righteous. Far better then, my child, to fear God and do His will at all times.
Do not fear hearing the will of God. Fear not complying with what you’ve learned before you hear more.
Neither be a superstitious worshipper of God nor a mindless pleaser of men. Love God as He presents Himself, not as you would have Him be. On the other hand, be lovingly cynical about men.
If you tremble at the thought of persecution, consider the pains of martyrdom. If you fear the pains of martyrdom, consider the pains of hell. Fear God and you will be granted victory over the second death; grace for martyrdom and courage for persecution.
Any prayer that contradicts Scripture, any confession of sin made glibly, any petition, no matter how passionately put, that God could not possibly grant without contradicting His character or Word, is worse than wasted breath. It is an attack on His person and reputation.
Make every effort towards the creation, maintenance, and preservation of peace but not to the point where you cease hating what God hates. These should be resisted first in one’s self and secondarily in society.
You are not your own. You were bought at great price. To the degree that you understand and live that fact is the degree to which you will gain wisdom and favor with both God and men.
In the life of the talmid (disciple) every act should be consecrated to the glory and worship of God. Every act that, due to its nature, cannot be so dedicated, should be cast off as a spiritual cancer.
Endeavor to consider each thought, each word, and each act in light of the fact that you will one day have to answer for it to Yahweh Shaphat (Matthew 12:36).
Live as though you’ve already seen the blessings of heaven and the torments of hell.
Life is short. Endeavor to wisely steward every moment. Let sobriety rule all things, whether it be recreation or work, for soon you will answer for them.
FILIALITY
Honor your parents. Respect your elders. Be passionate about life and truthful in all your communications. Cultivate friendship with the righteous. Develop a love for learning and be a lifelong student.
Filial piety is more than mere economic support. Even the rashaim will provide for their parents in order to be well perceived. True filial piety must involve reverence and honor.
You may bend your will to your parent’s while you are under their watchful care, but how will you live once you either leave their home or their spirits returns to its source? That is what will truly demonstrate your filial love.
Do you want your children to remember and honor your name? Do you want them to adopt your values and beliefs? Then remember and honor your parents’ name. Adopt what is good in their lives and give them the credit. Show your children the way.
Your parents are just as human as you. If you think we are doing something wrong, gently remonstrate with us. If we disagree and you are convinced you have the mind of the Lord, do not abandon your purpose but increase your level of reverence if you must bring the matter up again. You are far more likely to get a hearing if you do not presume.
Filial piety is more than mere economic support. Even the rashaim will provide for their parents in order to be well perceived. True filial piety must involve reverence and honor.
You may bend your will to your parent’s while you are under their watchful care, but how will you live once you either leave their home or their spirits returns to its source? That is what will truly demonstrate your filial love.
Do you want your children to remember and honor your name? Do you want them to adopt your values and beliefs? Then remember and honor your parents’ name. Adopt what is good in their lives and give them the credit. Show your children the way.
Your parents are just as human as you. If you think we are doing something wrong, gently remonstrate with us. If we disagree and you are convinced you have the mind of the Lord, do not abandon your purpose but increase your level of reverence if you must bring the matter up again. You are far more likely to get a hearing if you do not presume.
FORGIVENESS
Develop a thick skin. Don’t be easily insulted by other people’s rough or thoughtless speech. It’s only noise; vibrations in the air. It only has the emotional weight you grant it.
Forgive easily. When someone has forsaken you, be quick to welcome them should they return. The one who carries grudges is heavily laden indeed and will likely not get very far in life.
Do not take human rudeness to heart. Whoever acts or speaks offensively against you, sins against themselves equally. The best revenge is to not become like them.
Whatever good you see in others imitate. Whatever ill you perceive forgive in them while discouraging it in yourself.
Why are you upset by rudeness and spite? Do you think that you don’t offend at times? Would it be truly a holy inner war if all around you were naught but saints? Besides, how many have acted on their enmities, started wars both small and great, and are now in Sheol? Let it end with you.
Forgive easily. When someone has forsaken you, be quick to welcome them should they return. The one who carries grudges is heavily laden indeed and will likely not get very far in life.
Do not take human rudeness to heart. Whoever acts or speaks offensively against you, sins against themselves equally. The best revenge is to not become like them.
Whatever good you see in others imitate. Whatever ill you perceive forgive in them while discouraging it in yourself.
Why are you upset by rudeness and spite? Do you think that you don’t offend at times? Would it be truly a holy inner war if all around you were naught but saints? Besides, how many have acted on their enmities, started wars both small and great, and are now in Sheol? Let it end with you.
GOSSIP
Gossip can be defined as “news you have to hurry and tell somebody else before you find out it isn’t true!”
In every group there will rise gossipmongers who hover like vultures, just waiting for tidbits of slander that they can chew, swallow, and regurgitate. When you receive such a wicked person and give them a listening ear, you are metaphorically eating vulture vomit. I can assure you that it will have a consequence on your spiritual health!
In every group there will rise gossipmongers who hover like vultures, just waiting for tidbits of slander that they can chew, swallow, and regurgitate. When you receive such a wicked person and give them a listening ear, you are metaphorically eating vulture vomit. I can assure you that it will have a consequence on your spiritual health!
GRATITUDE
Appreciation is the best tool of both the wise and the wily.
A grateful heart is rarely heavy.
Truly free men remember the cost of their freedom and in remembering, they are freed.
A grateful heart is rarely heavy.
Truly free men remember the cost of their freedom and in remembering, they are freed.
GRIEF AND SORROW
When helping the grieving it is far more important to express sympathetic sorrow than to be careful for the ritual niceties.
Enjoy without license. Grieve without excess. Make allowance for holy anger but beware of self-righteousness.
There is an old proverb that says grief shared is halved. I doubt this but at least grief shared is not doubled. At least the loss is not compounded by having to endure it alone. Joy shared, on the other hand, is in fact doubled.
Enjoy without license. Grieve without excess. Make allowance for holy anger but beware of self-righteousness.
There is an old proverb that says grief shared is halved. I doubt this but at least grief shared is not doubled. At least the loss is not compounded by having to endure it alone. Joy shared, on the other hand, is in fact doubled.
HAPPINESS
The man least known by the world remains the happiest if he truly knows himself and God.
HOLINESS
I am never more pleased than when I hear you speak passionately of holiness, for the Adonaic Christian’s goal should not be to be happiness but holiness.
Happiness should never be the object of our pursuit. Joy rather than happiness should be valued in our hearts; and true joy is the byproduct of holiness.
If you are not trained to holiness, how can you ever influence others to it? If you are caught in shackles of vice, how will you ever free others? How can one who is without knowledge, discernment, understanding, or wisdom pass any of these on to another? How can you instill a love of holiness if you don’t recoil from sin yourself?
To say that God is holy is not to mean that He adheres perfectly to some ultimate standard. He IS the standard. He is absolutely holy in an incomprehensible manner. To live in His presence and find His hand of blessing resting lightly on our head we must also be holy.
I realize that we have the Messiah’s holiness attributed to our spiritually bankrupt accounts, but I cannot understand how anyone could be satisfied with that. After all, God’s entire purpose in redemption is to make us holy and restore us to His image, the way that He originally created us. It’s amazing how often we allow our vision of that glory to dim, and get drawn away to the cheap and unworthy prizes that the world sets before us.
Christ calls us to a cross – Cultural Christianity urges us to have “Christian” fun.
Christ calls us to forsake the world – Cultural Christianity assures us that the world is our oyster.
Christ calls us to take on some of the world’s suffering – Cultural Christianity calls us to bourgeois comforts.
Christ calls us to the joy that only holiness brings – Cultural Christianity calls us to cheap and easy happiness.
To spend our efforts on seeking to know and do the will of God, will inevitably bring joy, for it will bring God.
There is nothing so whole as a heart broken over sin.
The product of holiness is membership in a royal family; indeed a royal nation, that covers the earth and whose reign will never end.
Happiness should never be the object of our pursuit. Joy rather than happiness should be valued in our hearts; and true joy is the byproduct of holiness.
If you are not trained to holiness, how can you ever influence others to it? If you are caught in shackles of vice, how will you ever free others? How can one who is without knowledge, discernment, understanding, or wisdom pass any of these on to another? How can you instill a love of holiness if you don’t recoil from sin yourself?
To say that God is holy is not to mean that He adheres perfectly to some ultimate standard. He IS the standard. He is absolutely holy in an incomprehensible manner. To live in His presence and find His hand of blessing resting lightly on our head we must also be holy.
I realize that we have the Messiah’s holiness attributed to our spiritually bankrupt accounts, but I cannot understand how anyone could be satisfied with that. After all, God’s entire purpose in redemption is to make us holy and restore us to His image, the way that He originally created us. It’s amazing how often we allow our vision of that glory to dim, and get drawn away to the cheap and unworthy prizes that the world sets before us.
Christ calls us to a cross – Cultural Christianity urges us to have “Christian” fun.
Christ calls us to forsake the world – Cultural Christianity assures us that the world is our oyster.
Christ calls us to take on some of the world’s suffering – Cultural Christianity calls us to bourgeois comforts.
Christ calls us to the joy that only holiness brings – Cultural Christianity calls us to cheap and easy happiness.
To spend our efforts on seeking to know and do the will of God, will inevitably bring joy, for it will bring God.
There is nothing so whole as a heart broken over sin.
The product of holiness is membership in a royal family; indeed a royal nation, that covers the earth and whose reign will never end.
HONOR
He is free whose life is governed by truth and motivated by love.
The best defense against calumny is to quietly continue doing what is right.
Owe no man anything save love and honor. All else was given to you. These two are the only things you truly own and have to give anyway.
Always do, without thought of cost in time or material goods, what impresses you as bringing the glory of God and your own good. However, be sure that it is God’s glory and what is good that is foremost in your mind and not merely pleasure or fame.
Strive to always do your duty. Give God the glory that is His due and work on the general betterment of mankind. Do this regardless of the difficulties you will face, for you will be defined by what it took to stop you.
Never do anything you wouldn’t do a minute before Death came calling.
Never do anything that you would despise in another person.
Never speaking contrary to truth or doing anything contrary to justice is the mark of an honorable person.
Do what good you’ll wish you had done when you see another do it.
Tzaddikim will not profit at the expense of their virtue. Indeed, they will sacrifice their lives rather than their honor.
Consider expressing your indebtedness to friends who have assisted you a pleasurable duty.
The best defense against calumny is to quietly continue doing what is right.
Owe no man anything save love and honor. All else was given to you. These two are the only things you truly own and have to give anyway.
Always do, without thought of cost in time or material goods, what impresses you as bringing the glory of God and your own good. However, be sure that it is God’s glory and what is good that is foremost in your mind and not merely pleasure or fame.
Strive to always do your duty. Give God the glory that is His due and work on the general betterment of mankind. Do this regardless of the difficulties you will face, for you will be defined by what it took to stop you.
Never do anything you wouldn’t do a minute before Death came calling.
Never do anything that you would despise in another person.
Never speaking contrary to truth or doing anything contrary to justice is the mark of an honorable person.
Do what good you’ll wish you had done when you see another do it.
Tzaddikim will not profit at the expense of their virtue. Indeed, they will sacrifice their lives rather than their honor.
Consider expressing your indebtedness to friends who have assisted you a pleasurable duty.
HOPE
It’s strange how opportunity seeks out those who hope and work most.
Even the highest of towers begins at ground level.
Your ship will never come in if you don’t first send it out.
Talk less – say more.
Fear less – hope more.
Even the highest of towers begins at ground level.
Your ship will never come in if you don’t first send it out.
Talk less – say more.
Fear less – hope more.
HUMILITY / PRIDE
He is most empty who is full of himself. He is most full who has emptied himself into others.
A man who has buried another will soon be buried in turn. We are as ephemeral as a deer’s breath on a cold winter’s night. Let us go our way, meek and humbled by our frailty.
Those who think too highly of themselves don’t think deeply enough.
If you demand much of yourself and little from others you will not be resented.
Never dare to rank yourself with sages or among the virtuous. Simply be content to an insatiable striving for sagacity, virtue, and inexhaustible ministry.
Strive to always find at least one thing in which the person before you surpasses you.
In your conduct be humble.
In your service to your masters be respectful.
In your ministry be kind.
In your leadership be just.
One advantage to leadership is that if you have made any errors, your people will all soon know about it and the errors are sure to be pointed out. What a tremendous advantage in character building!
When you have been wise, consider others as being equal in wisdom. But when you have been stupid, consider yourself unparalleled.
Wisdom is knowing what you do and don’t know and being able to admit to the truth of either.
A wise man boasts little, fearing that his actions may not rise to the occasion.
Think only of yourself and you will be the only one to do so.
Behave with honor and dignity but do not slip into the sin of vanity.
Never hesitate in the admission and abandonment of your faults. No one will be surprised that you have faults and owning up to them will not in itself cause you to fail. On the other hand, nearly everyone will be impressed if you courageously admit to them; ask for help in overcoming them; and finally actually cast them aside for more virtuous paths.
First, humble yourself and fear the Lord. But after humility, three critical character traits to develop are virtue, wisdom, and boldness. The one who is virtuous will be free from anxiety. The one who is wise will be free from perplexities. The one who is bold will be free from fear.
You may be gifted; seek even so to learn even from those less gifted anyway. You may possess much yet still be able to learn from those who possess little. You may have and yet act as one who has not. Be full yet count yourself as empty. Be willing to be offended against and yet refuse to argue pointlessly.
You may say “I am not gifted. I am not talented.” What of sincerity, gravity, diligence, self-control, peaceableness, contentment with little, kindness, freedom of spirit, magnanimity? Who cannot demonstrate these and gain honor with both God and man?
Pedantry is the sister of arrogance and is first cousin to dogmatism. It is the last resort of a stiffened, dying mind.
Ascribe whatever goodness and holiness that may be found in you to the gentle, patient work of the Holy Spirit and not yourself.
A man who has buried another will soon be buried in turn. We are as ephemeral as a deer’s breath on a cold winter’s night. Let us go our way, meek and humbled by our frailty.
Those who think too highly of themselves don’t think deeply enough.
If you demand much of yourself and little from others you will not be resented.
Never dare to rank yourself with sages or among the virtuous. Simply be content to an insatiable striving for sagacity, virtue, and inexhaustible ministry.
Strive to always find at least one thing in which the person before you surpasses you.
In your conduct be humble.
In your service to your masters be respectful.
In your ministry be kind.
In your leadership be just.
One advantage to leadership is that if you have made any errors, your people will all soon know about it and the errors are sure to be pointed out. What a tremendous advantage in character building!
When you have been wise, consider others as being equal in wisdom. But when you have been stupid, consider yourself unparalleled.
Wisdom is knowing what you do and don’t know and being able to admit to the truth of either.
A wise man boasts little, fearing that his actions may not rise to the occasion.
Think only of yourself and you will be the only one to do so.
Behave with honor and dignity but do not slip into the sin of vanity.
Never hesitate in the admission and abandonment of your faults. No one will be surprised that you have faults and owning up to them will not in itself cause you to fail. On the other hand, nearly everyone will be impressed if you courageously admit to them; ask for help in overcoming them; and finally actually cast them aside for more virtuous paths.
First, humble yourself and fear the Lord. But after humility, three critical character traits to develop are virtue, wisdom, and boldness. The one who is virtuous will be free from anxiety. The one who is wise will be free from perplexities. The one who is bold will be free from fear.
You may be gifted; seek even so to learn even from those less gifted anyway. You may possess much yet still be able to learn from those who possess little. You may have and yet act as one who has not. Be full yet count yourself as empty. Be willing to be offended against and yet refuse to argue pointlessly.
You may say “I am not gifted. I am not talented.” What of sincerity, gravity, diligence, self-control, peaceableness, contentment with little, kindness, freedom of spirit, magnanimity? Who cannot demonstrate these and gain honor with both God and man?
Pedantry is the sister of arrogance and is first cousin to dogmatism. It is the last resort of a stiffened, dying mind.
Ascribe whatever goodness and holiness that may be found in you to the gentle, patient work of the Holy Spirit and not yourself.
INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Courtesy extended will eventually be happiness received.
Borrowing trouble’s easy. Paying the interest…not so much.
The six most powerful words anyone can speak in any conflict are, “I have sinned; please forgive me.” The second most powerful are “You have sinned; I forgive you.”
Always strive to show respect – even to fools who do not deserve it. By doing this you will save yourself from shame and disgrace.
To the aged give rest.
To the young give tenderness.
To your friends give sincerity.
There is nothing lonelier than an unloving heart.
Demonstrate balance in your friendships. Neither disrespectfully neglect or grow weary of your friends nor yet at any time be madly fond of them. Every relationship should have a modicum of reserve. No human relationship should supersede d’vekut.
“It is not good for man to be alone” said our Maker. “Two are better than one,” said Quoheleth. “Go and make disciples,” said our Master and sent them out in pairs. No one can accomplish tikkun olam alone. We must work together in order to forgive, heal, and bring about justice.
Doubt the truth of how men present themselves (for they are often self-deceiving) and you will be safe from much harm.
Besociable. Practice gracious and delightful conversation but never to satiety. Knowing when to listen is just as important as knowing when to speak. Knowing when to leave is as critical as knowing when to show up.
When faced with the sins of others, remind yourself that you are the chief of sinners and that given the same circumstances you might have chosen similarly. Allow their sin to provoke personal shame at the memory of your own faults and you will be humble enough to help them.
The virtuous will always have true friends. The wicked never do.
The virtuous speak well, but gracious speech does not necessarily imply virtue. The principled are bold, but boldness does not necessarily imply principles.
The tzaddik asks of himself three questions, regardless of who stands before him: what good do they possess that I may learn; what evil do they possess that I may avoid; and what may I do to improve their d’vekut?
You will gain much time and ease much worry by schooling yourself to be disinterested in what others have said, done or tried, and remaining humbly focused on God’s will for you.
Borrowing trouble’s easy. Paying the interest…not so much.
The six most powerful words anyone can speak in any conflict are, “I have sinned; please forgive me.” The second most powerful are “You have sinned; I forgive you.”
Always strive to show respect – even to fools who do not deserve it. By doing this you will save yourself from shame and disgrace.
To the aged give rest.
To the young give tenderness.
To your friends give sincerity.
There is nothing lonelier than an unloving heart.
Demonstrate balance in your friendships. Neither disrespectfully neglect or grow weary of your friends nor yet at any time be madly fond of them. Every relationship should have a modicum of reserve. No human relationship should supersede d’vekut.
“It is not good for man to be alone” said our Maker. “Two are better than one,” said Quoheleth. “Go and make disciples,” said our Master and sent them out in pairs. No one can accomplish tikkun olam alone. We must work together in order to forgive, heal, and bring about justice.
Doubt the truth of how men present themselves (for they are often self-deceiving) and you will be safe from much harm.
Besociable. Practice gracious and delightful conversation but never to satiety. Knowing when to listen is just as important as knowing when to speak. Knowing when to leave is as critical as knowing when to show up.
When faced with the sins of others, remind yourself that you are the chief of sinners and that given the same circumstances you might have chosen similarly. Allow their sin to provoke personal shame at the memory of your own faults and you will be humble enough to help them.
The virtuous will always have true friends. The wicked never do.
The virtuous speak well, but gracious speech does not necessarily imply virtue. The principled are bold, but boldness does not necessarily imply principles.
The tzaddik asks of himself three questions, regardless of who stands before him: what good do they possess that I may learn; what evil do they possess that I may avoid; and what may I do to improve their d’vekut?
You will gain much time and ease much worry by schooling yourself to be disinterested in what others have said, done or tried, and remaining humbly focused on God’s will for you.
JUSTICE
Have this as your goal, and do not deviate from it: that your every action and motive be the pursuit of justice. Justice is, after all, the core issue between God and man.
When God was asked what the greatest mitzvah was He confirmed the two-tiered command to love God passionately and to love one’s neighbor as one’s self (Dt. 6:5; Mt. 22:37; Lk. 10:27). Love of one’s neighbor is the essence of justice. Therefore, the one who pursues justice pursues God.
Break the Decalogue down and you will discover that all Ten Commandments hinge on two critical issues: love of God (1-4), and love of one’s neighbor (5-10). We cannot harm our neighbor without making God our enemy (Jm. 2:10).
Hashem is an intrinsically ethical person. Thus, every religious command, every application of biblical thought must have as its end ethical behavior (1 Pt. 1:17).
Hashem is so concerned with interpersonal justice that He places it above religious worship! (Mt. 5:23-24)
To be singled out by God one must be an ethical evangelist. To be on God’s side is to not only obey Him but to ensure that each succeeding generation keeps the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. (Ge. 18:19)
Abraham understood justice to be THE defining characteristic of God (Ge. 18:25). Make it yours and you will soon feel His empowering presence.
There are three laws that promise long life and all three deal with ethical living: filiality (Ex. 20:11), ecology (Dt. 22:6-7), and economic justice (Dt. 25:15). Want to live long?
Do not split ethical hairs with the God who commanded “do what is right and good in the eyes of God” (Dt. 6:18) Not only does this cover anything not specifically spelled out in Halakha, but it even allows us to ignore a law if adherence would lead to injustice.
When Yahweh took us out of Egypt, before He ever spoke of burnt offerings or sacrifices, He commanded simple, humble obedience to His mitzvoth. To be freed is not to be anarchic. To remain free one must love God’s just laws. (Je. 7:22-23)
Human wisdom, strength, or riches are nearly useless. Pursue faithful love, justice, and righteousness for Adonai adonaim delights in these things. (Je. 9:23-24)
As strange as it may seem, Adonai’s primary demand on humans is not sacrifice or religious rituals. Rather it is that we do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. (Mi. 6:8)
When people ask “Why are you so concerned with Old Covenant laws?” Answer “Those who are willing to submit to God’s laws have no problem submitting to His King.” Those who cannot conform to ethics and justice will not conform to the Messiah either. (Jn. 8:43-47)
Have this as your goal, and do not deviate from it: that your every action and motive be the pursuit of justice. Justice is, after all, the core issue between God and man.
When God was asked what the greatest mitzvah was He confirmed the two-tiered command to love God passionately and to love one’s neighbor as one’s self (Dt. 6:5; Mt. 22:37; Lk. 10:27). Love of one’s neighbor is the essence of justice. Therefore, the one who pursues justice pursues God.
Break the Decalogue down and you will discover that all Ten Commandments hinge on two critical issues: love of God (1-4), and love of one’s neighbor (5-10). We cannot harm our neighbor without making God our enemy (Jm. 2:10).
Hashem is an intrinsically ethical person. Thus, every religious command, every application of biblical thought must have as its end ethical behavior (1 Pt. 1:17).
Hashem is so concerned with interpersonal justice that He places it above religious worship! (Mt. 5:23-24)
To be singled out by God one must be an ethical evangelist. To be on God’s side is to not only obey Him but to ensure that each succeeding generation keeps the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. (Ge. 18:19)
Abraham understood justice to be THE defining characteristic of God (Ge. 18:25). Make it yours and you will soon feel His empowering presence.
There are three laws that promise long life and all three deal with ethical living: filiality (Ex. 20:11), ecology (Dt. 22:6-7), and economic justice (Dt. 25:15). Want to live long?
Do not split ethical hairs with the God who commanded “do what is right and good in the eyes of God” (Dt. 6:18) Not only does this cover anything not specifically spelled out in Halakha, but it even allows us to ignore a law if adherence would lead to injustice.
When Yahweh took us out of Egypt, before He ever spoke of burnt offerings or sacrifices, He commanded simple, humble obedience to His mitzvoth. To be freed is not to be anarchic. To remain free one must love God’s just laws. (Je. 7:22-23)
Human wisdom, strength, or riches are nearly useless. Pursue faithful love, justice, and righteousness for Adonai adonaim delights in these things. (Je. 9:23-24)
As strange as it may seem, Adonai’s primary demand on humans is not sacrifice or religious rituals. Rather it is that we do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. (Mi. 6:8)
When people ask “Why are you so concerned with Old Covenant laws?” Answer “Those who are willing to submit to God’s laws have no problem submitting to His King.” Those who cannot conform to ethics and justice will not conform to the Messiah either. (Jn. 8:43-47)
Have this as your goal, and do not deviate from it: that your every action and motive be the pursuit of justice. Justice is, after all, the core issue between God and man.
LASHON HARA
Despise those who attempt to use gossip to make themselves seem wise.
Despise those who excuse the revelation of secrets by claims of “brutal honesty.”
He who can resist the delights of hotza’at dibah may be called intelligent indeed. The one with whom lashon hara finds no success may be called farseeing.
Four horses cannot overtake one wicked tongue.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it without whining!
Never speak ill of any except if there be a just cause and the purpose be their reconciliation and eventual betterment.
Despise those who excuse the revelation of secrets by claims of “brutal honesty.”
He who can resist the delights of hotza’at dibah may be called intelligent indeed. The one with whom lashon hara finds no success may be called farseeing.
Four horses cannot overtake one wicked tongue.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it without whining!
Never speak ill of any except if there be a just cause and the purpose be their reconciliation and eventual betterment.
LAZINESS
The one who will eat but will not contribute is a worthless pig. Worse! At least the pig eventually gives himself to be eaten!
It would be better to play than to do nothing. At least then one is learning strategy, tactics, or at the very least, how to get along with others.
Happy people are not idle. The idle are not happy.
Every labor, no matter how menial, can have spiritual significance.
How many things could have been done in spite of our supposed weaknesses or lack of time or resources? We complain, are base, accuse others, and pamper ourselves. Meanwhile the world dies.
It would be better to play than to do nothing. At least then one is learning strategy, tactics, or at the very least, how to get along with others.
Happy people are not idle. The idle are not happy.
Every labor, no matter how menial, can have spiritual significance.
How many things could have been done in spite of our supposed weaknesses or lack of time or resources? We complain, are base, accuse others, and pamper ourselves. Meanwhile the world dies.
LEADERSHIP
No leader displays all his knowledge. Proverbs 12:23 says that a shrewd person conceals knowledge. There must be a reserve. Why? It is because people never quite respect the person who holds nothing in reserve. Leadership should have surplus power in reserve, too; sufficient to any occasion. It can exercise sagacious tact in the releasing of that power. Leadership should have superior knowledge, but be so skilled in the technique of imparting it, that, like gravitation, silently the power is felt but the source of the power is unseen. A leaderless project is an aimless project and will eventually fall apart.
The one rowing the boat rarely has time to rock it.
The conditions of conflict may change, but be assured that conflict itself never ceases.
Strong, driven leaders are necessary. It is true that kings have erred; but king Mob has never been right!
Do not become so busy correcting the faults of others that you begin to neglect your own. Do not become so focused on correcting your own faults that you become unavailable to serve others.
Promote the righteous and demote the wicked and good people will follow. Demote the righteous and promote the wicked and (no matter what the wicked promise) soon you will stand alone.
To be a leader one must pay careful attention to one’s business; be sincerely devoted to the cause; be parsimonious in the use of resources; and put the needs of one’s followers ahead of one’s own good.
Anyone who is unwilling to set aside his pride or comfort in order to gain wisdom is not fit to lead.
The cautious rarely err – or make a difference.
Those who lead only by enforcing rules will soon discover those they lead avoid the punishment but do not take the principles to heart. Those who lead by modeling and explaining the principles of virtue will soon discover those they lead behaving properly because they want to. Those who choose to rebel will leave. Those who choose to live quiet, righteous lives will join. Either way, one is left with a solid team.
The sober minded leader will be reverenced.
The kind leader will be loved.
The teaching leader will be emulated.
Piety; filiality; fraternity; honor; loyalty; duty; courage; these seven virtues are very near to the heart of every truly great person.
Be hesitant about criticizing your superiors. Only rarely have they acquired their position accidentally. By faithfully serving them you will reduce the confusion and division on the team and will thus become essential to their goals. As they rise in the organization they will likely take you with them.
Serve your masters with courtesy.
Serve your people with fidelity.
Do you want your leadership to be firmly established? Then firmly establish the leadership of those you lead. Do you wish to be promoted? Then seek the promotion those you lead.
A vital aspect of successful leadership is the constant, insatiable acquisition of knowledge; and the ability to pass this learning on…without exhausting yourself.
The man who fails to plan for his distant future will soon find sorrow near at hand.
The leader who does not possess breadth of mind or faithful endurance will find the burden of leadership heavy and the way ahead long.
Every good leader knows he must supply his people with three things: materiel, food, and confidence in the leadership. If one of the three must be lost let it be the materiel, for with food and morale this can be overcome. If two of the three must be lost let it be materiel and food, for all men must die someday, but if morale – confidence in one’s leadership – be lost, all is lost.
Make sure your people are provided for. If your people have plenty, you will not long be left in want. But if your people are in want, you will not be left to enjoy your plenty for long.
Leadership involves a fine sense of balance. Become too familiar with your people and they lose their respect for you. Become too reserved and they think you are cold or discontent.
Like iron filings follow the magnet’s emanations, the truly virtuous man will soon find others following him.
If you want the respect of your peers, cultivate gravity and sobriety. A sense of humor, while a requisite for good health and a sound mind, if misplaced or too often exercised, will lead to disrespect and disunity.
The art of governance is to rule justly and consistently yet without exhausting one’s personal resources.
Exalt the virtuous and debase the wicked. The wicked will soon leave or change. Either way you will be left with the virtuous. Exalt the wicked and debase the virtuous – and you will be left facing your Judge.
A person of character will be able to lead, even without issuing orders. A person who lacks character, on the other hand, will not be able to successfully lead, no matter how many orders he issues.
A leader who can make his own conduct correct, what difficulty would he have in governing? But a leader who cannot rectify himself, what can he possibly govern?
Do not place too much value in having things change quickly. Do not focus on small advantages. Desiring to have things change quickly may prevent their being done thoroughly and you will experience setbacks. Focusing on small advantages will keep you from maintaining the long view and great advantages will be lost to your people.
The first task of a leader is self-improvement. By “self” I mean his character and virtue. The lowest carpenter knows that before he may perform his tasks he must first sharpen his tools.
Only once he’s gained the confidence of his people may a leader put them to work. Should he seek to put them to work before that point, they will think he is oppressive, lose what little confidence they had, and leave.
When a leader’s erred, the swiftest, surest way back to the path forward is honest acknowledgment, confession, repentance, and restitution. The leader whose sins are left to be discovered will find the following await him: dismay will become discontent; which will become dissent; which will transform into dissidence. If left to rot, dissidence will soon become subversion which will nearly inevitably (because it’s so late in the game) become open insurrection.
A wise leader will smile and nod gratefully at all compliments and flattery but will internally repress and deny them. The day he begins fully believing those obsequious words is the day leadership will begin to slip from his hands. It was when Saul went to Carmel to set up a monument for himself that he lost the throne.
Carefully keep in mind everything your team requires. Keep an accurate account of the expenses. Do not tolerate laziness or dishonesty. These three principles alone will establish your leadership, for God will give stewardship to those who show themselves faithful with His resources.
Care LITTLE that a strict, rigid approach is reprehended by some. Give GREAT care that your ministry is marked by sober minded compassion and care.
Excessive indulgence will soon lead to insubordination. Excessive frugality will soon lead to negativity. It would be best to have frugality occasionally lightened by indulgence, but if one must err, negativity is better than insubordination.
Both privilege without responsibility and responsibility without privilege are equally wrong.
The one rowing the boat rarely has time to rock it.
The conditions of conflict may change, but be assured that conflict itself never ceases.
Strong, driven leaders are necessary. It is true that kings have erred; but king Mob has never been right!
Do not become so busy correcting the faults of others that you begin to neglect your own. Do not become so focused on correcting your own faults that you become unavailable to serve others.
Promote the righteous and demote the wicked and good people will follow. Demote the righteous and promote the wicked and (no matter what the wicked promise) soon you will stand alone.
To be a leader one must pay careful attention to one’s business; be sincerely devoted to the cause; be parsimonious in the use of resources; and put the needs of one’s followers ahead of one’s own good.
Anyone who is unwilling to set aside his pride or comfort in order to gain wisdom is not fit to lead.
The cautious rarely err – or make a difference.
Those who lead only by enforcing rules will soon discover those they lead avoid the punishment but do not take the principles to heart. Those who lead by modeling and explaining the principles of virtue will soon discover those they lead behaving properly because they want to. Those who choose to rebel will leave. Those who choose to live quiet, righteous lives will join. Either way, one is left with a solid team.
The sober minded leader will be reverenced.
The kind leader will be loved.
The teaching leader will be emulated.
Piety; filiality; fraternity; honor; loyalty; duty; courage; these seven virtues are very near to the heart of every truly great person.
Be hesitant about criticizing your superiors. Only rarely have they acquired their position accidentally. By faithfully serving them you will reduce the confusion and division on the team and will thus become essential to their goals. As they rise in the organization they will likely take you with them.
Serve your masters with courtesy.
Serve your people with fidelity.
Do you want your leadership to be firmly established? Then firmly establish the leadership of those you lead. Do you wish to be promoted? Then seek the promotion those you lead.
A vital aspect of successful leadership is the constant, insatiable acquisition of knowledge; and the ability to pass this learning on…without exhausting yourself.
The man who fails to plan for his distant future will soon find sorrow near at hand.
The leader who does not possess breadth of mind or faithful endurance will find the burden of leadership heavy and the way ahead long.
Every good leader knows he must supply his people with three things: materiel, food, and confidence in the leadership. If one of the three must be lost let it be the materiel, for with food and morale this can be overcome. If two of the three must be lost let it be materiel and food, for all men must die someday, but if morale – confidence in one’s leadership – be lost, all is lost.
Make sure your people are provided for. If your people have plenty, you will not long be left in want. But if your people are in want, you will not be left to enjoy your plenty for long.
Leadership involves a fine sense of balance. Become too familiar with your people and they lose their respect for you. Become too reserved and they think you are cold or discontent.
Like iron filings follow the magnet’s emanations, the truly virtuous man will soon find others following him.
If you want the respect of your peers, cultivate gravity and sobriety. A sense of humor, while a requisite for good health and a sound mind, if misplaced or too often exercised, will lead to disrespect and disunity.
The art of governance is to rule justly and consistently yet without exhausting one’s personal resources.
Exalt the virtuous and debase the wicked. The wicked will soon leave or change. Either way you will be left with the virtuous. Exalt the wicked and debase the virtuous – and you will be left facing your Judge.
A person of character will be able to lead, even without issuing orders. A person who lacks character, on the other hand, will not be able to successfully lead, no matter how many orders he issues.
A leader who can make his own conduct correct, what difficulty would he have in governing? But a leader who cannot rectify himself, what can he possibly govern?
Do not place too much value in having things change quickly. Do not focus on small advantages. Desiring to have things change quickly may prevent their being done thoroughly and you will experience setbacks. Focusing on small advantages will keep you from maintaining the long view and great advantages will be lost to your people.
The first task of a leader is self-improvement. By “self” I mean his character and virtue. The lowest carpenter knows that before he may perform his tasks he must first sharpen his tools.
Only once he’s gained the confidence of his people may a leader put them to work. Should he seek to put them to work before that point, they will think he is oppressive, lose what little confidence they had, and leave.
When a leader’s erred, the swiftest, surest way back to the path forward is honest acknowledgment, confession, repentance, and restitution. The leader whose sins are left to be discovered will find the following await him: dismay will become discontent; which will become dissent; which will transform into dissidence. If left to rot, dissidence will soon become subversion which will nearly inevitably (because it’s so late in the game) become open insurrection.
A wise leader will smile and nod gratefully at all compliments and flattery but will internally repress and deny them. The day he begins fully believing those obsequious words is the day leadership will begin to slip from his hands. It was when Saul went to Carmel to set up a monument for himself that he lost the throne.
Carefully keep in mind everything your team requires. Keep an accurate account of the expenses. Do not tolerate laziness or dishonesty. These three principles alone will establish your leadership, for God will give stewardship to those who show themselves faithful with His resources.
Care LITTLE that a strict, rigid approach is reprehended by some. Give GREAT care that your ministry is marked by sober minded compassion and care.
Excessive indulgence will soon lead to insubordination. Excessive frugality will soon lead to negativity. It would be best to have frugality occasionally lightened by indulgence, but if one must err, negativity is better than insubordination.
Both privilege without responsibility and responsibility without privilege are equally wrong.
MINDFULNESS
Whether you live ten years or one hundred, the number of seconds you have are limited. Make each one count. Live fully in, and improve if possible, each moment of time.
Endeavor to do nothing that runs contrary to the common good. This implies that every decision must be brought under the magnifying lens of careful forethought and compared to the wisdom of God before enactment.
The mind of the tzaddik must be disciplined and purged of all that is foul or impure, intolerant of either servility or affectation. Death will never surprise such a person or find them unprepared, like a bad actor with lines yet to recite and the curtain already down.
The past is beyond changing and the future is as yet uncertain. Both the one who walks looking backward and the one who keeps his gaze too far forward stumble. Discipline yourself to live fully in the “now”.
Live as one about to die. As long as you breathe, as long as you may, be good.
The vine bears her fruit with no thought of praise or reward, content with her usefulness. Likewise perform your mitzvoth naturally, with barely a thought, in the same way as you breathe. This is holy forgetfulness; saintly emptying of one’s self.
Endeavor to do nothing that runs contrary to the common good. This implies that every decision must be brought under the magnifying lens of careful forethought and compared to the wisdom of God before enactment.
The mind of the tzaddik must be disciplined and purged of all that is foul or impure, intolerant of either servility or affectation. Death will never surprise such a person or find them unprepared, like a bad actor with lines yet to recite and the curtain already down.
The past is beyond changing and the future is as yet uncertain. Both the one who walks looking backward and the one who keeps his gaze too far forward stumble. Discipline yourself to live fully in the “now”.
Live as one about to die. As long as you breathe, as long as you may, be good.
The vine bears her fruit with no thought of praise or reward, content with her usefulness. Likewise perform your mitzvoth naturally, with barely a thought, in the same way as you breathe. This is holy forgetfulness; saintly emptying of one’s self.
MITZVOTH - Yahweh's command/blessings
Whatever Yahweh has commanded is the greatest good and obedience to His mitzvoth can only bring more good.
What Yahweh’s mitzvoth promote we can accomplish. Whatever they forbid, we can control.
What Yahweh’s mitzvoth promote we can accomplish. Whatever they forbid, we can control.
PRAYER
Sometimes it is not prayer, but action that is needed. Prayer is an effective tool, but sweat and elbow grease must always accompany it.
Our prayers are only as effective as we are personally submissive to God’s will.
We need to be careful about whining to the Lord to solve some of our problems when He has already told us what to do.
Our prayers are only as effective as we are personally submissive to God’s will.
We need to be careful about whining to the Lord to solve some of our problems when He has already told us what to do.
PROCRASTINATION
A task begun is half finished.
REBELS
If you want to revenge yourself on your enemy, increase your positive qualities and follow righteous paths. In this manner, you will retaliate against your foe, for he will feel bad because of your qualities and mourn when hearing about your good reputation. However, if you perform shameful deeds, your foe will rejoice in your disgrace and dishonor and so he will have revenge against you.
The daring and those who are congenitally discontent with their lot will soon proceed to rebellion. So will the rasha when the tzaddik’s disapproval of his behavior becomes apparent.
A passionate countenance, flattery, over exaggerated respect will soon lead to betrayal.
He is a traitor indeed, to himself, his family, his congregation, his community, or his nation, who withdraws from rationality and yields to his base nature.
The daring and those who are congenitally discontent with their lot will soon proceed to rebellion. So will the rasha when the tzaddik’s disapproval of his behavior becomes apparent.
A passionate countenance, flattery, over exaggerated respect will soon lead to betrayal.
He is a traitor indeed, to himself, his family, his congregation, his community, or his nation, who withdraws from rationality and yields to his base nature.
RECOGNITION AND FAME
Do not concern yourself with seeking office. Concern yourself with being worthy of office.
Do not fret over being known. Concern yourself with being noteworthy.
Don’t worry about whether people recognize your talents or accomplishments. All will come out in the end, whether good or evil. Be content with that.
Do not seek to be known. Seek to know. Do not be distressed by obscurity. Instead, be distressed by lack of ability.
Do not care whether you are hated or loved universally. The Messiah was reviled though perfect. Many stars are loved though wicked.
Do you want to be honored by both God and men? Speak few, sincere and honest words. Behave honorably and circumspectly.
All things merely human, given enough time, go badly.
Do not care for popular applause. Instead, be sober in all things, and studious as to that which is fitting.
Neither seek to be known as a scholar nor as a sycophant but as a mature, sound person who cannot endure flattery; one who can govern himself and others.
Take care of your character and God will take care of your reputation.
Do not fret over being known. Concern yourself with being noteworthy.
Don’t worry about whether people recognize your talents or accomplishments. All will come out in the end, whether good or evil. Be content with that.
Do not seek to be known. Seek to know. Do not be distressed by obscurity. Instead, be distressed by lack of ability.
Do not care whether you are hated or loved universally. The Messiah was reviled though perfect. Many stars are loved though wicked.
Do you want to be honored by both God and men? Speak few, sincere and honest words. Behave honorably and circumspectly.
All things merely human, given enough time, go badly.
Do not care for popular applause. Instead, be sober in all things, and studious as to that which is fitting.
Neither seek to be known as a scholar nor as a sycophant but as a mature, sound person who cannot endure flattery; one who can govern himself and others.
Take care of your character and God will take care of your reputation.
SELF-DISCIPLINE
Do not so much determine to be sinless, for you will be disappointed and in your disheartened state you may quit even trying. Instead, determine that if you fail you will instantly get up and begin again.
Do not approach discipline as some do their teachers and education after a long, self-indulgent summer. Instead, approach discipline as a suffering man does his Healer, or a love-sick man does the object of his affection.
Hashem created you, knows you intimately, and ensured that His mitzvoth are designed to improve your best, truest nature. Why would you rebel against them?
Too often, alcohol puts the “wreck” in “recreation”.
Lack of self-control in small matters will inevitably bring one’s undoing in great plans.
Humans generally make one of two basic errors: either they choose to follow no rules or they choose to follow false rules. Those who seek salvation must submit themselves to Scriptural rules – halakha.
Curtail your love of sensuous pleasure whether it take the form of physical comfort, delight in food or drink, sexual arousal, or the temptations of beauty. All these are Adonai’s gifts to man. But like any gift, if overindulged or too greatly emphasized, each can become a snare to the human soul.
Develop a taste for persistent and disciplined learning.
Seek many small ways in which to practice the virtue of disciplined simplicity. Eat little and plainly. Minimize the number of labor-saving appliances. Speak little but meaningfully. Let your friends be few but virtuous.
May your words be few and your actions true.
Knowing the truth is not as great as loving the truth. Loving the truth is not as great as obeying the truth.
Knowing what is virtuous but not cultivating it in one’s character;
Learning something new without thoroughly integrating it into what is known;
Seeing righteousness but not moving toward it;
Not being able to change what one knows is not healthy in one’s self;
These are all things that should provoke concern.
Boldness, untempered by the Spirit, may become rebellion.
Bravery, untempered by the Spirit, may become imprudence.
Caution, untempered by the Spirit, may become timidity.
Respect, untempered by the Spirit, may become servile flattery.
Straightforwardness, untempered by the Spirit, may become rudeness.
Acquisition of knowledge without true learning leads to dissipation of the mind.
Benevolence unguided by learning leads to foolish simplicity.
Boldness that is not preceded by learning will become rebellion.
Firmness not softened by learning will become overbearing.
Honesty untempered by learning results in rude boorishness.
Zealousness uncontrolled by learning leads to calamitous consequences.
Just as a farmer is concerned that he plow without producing a harvest, so a man should be concerned if he toils at his books without learning.
Increased knowledge that is not matched by increased virtue will either be lost or bring calamity.
Be gentle and meek, avoiding the excesses of negative passions.
Train yourself to avoid not only evil actions but even the intent.
Learn to not only accept hard work but to rejoice in it. If pride must exist in your life, let it not be in what you possess but in how hard you can work.
When you begin to be lifted up in pride, remember how long you’ve put off doing what’s right and how many specific tasks you were assigned that you neglected. Isn’t it about time to understand the nature of the world, your role in it, and the Source from which you sprang? Only a limited time has been appointed to you and if you do not soon discipline the distempers of your soul, time will soon pass away, and you with it, never to return.
Follow Hashem’s paths. Keep His mitzvoth (command/blessings) meekly; carefully refraining from mixing in worldly philosophies and studying to preserve your spirit unpolluted. Do this and you will live happily and none will ever successfully hinder you, for God will be your shield.
If an action does not follow a rule, it is either rash or rebellious. If it is rash or rebellious, it is anarchic and contrary to the common good. Rules, whether of art, science, or morality, are not restrictive but protective.
The will of God can be found in the Holy Scriptures. Tzaddikim allow their daily existence to be regulated in every phase by its precepts. However, a prerequisite to knowing the daily will of God is to be daily in the Word. We are to be “Am Hasefer”, “People of the Book.”
Do not approach discipline as some do their teachers and education after a long, self-indulgent summer. Instead, approach discipline as a suffering man does his Healer, or a love-sick man does the object of his affection.
Hashem created you, knows you intimately, and ensured that His mitzvoth are designed to improve your best, truest nature. Why would you rebel against them?
Too often, alcohol puts the “wreck” in “recreation”.
Lack of self-control in small matters will inevitably bring one’s undoing in great plans.
Humans generally make one of two basic errors: either they choose to follow no rules or they choose to follow false rules. Those who seek salvation must submit themselves to Scriptural rules – halakha.
Curtail your love of sensuous pleasure whether it take the form of physical comfort, delight in food or drink, sexual arousal, or the temptations of beauty. All these are Adonai’s gifts to man. But like any gift, if overindulged or too greatly emphasized, each can become a snare to the human soul.
Develop a taste for persistent and disciplined learning.
Seek many small ways in which to practice the virtue of disciplined simplicity. Eat little and plainly. Minimize the number of labor-saving appliances. Speak little but meaningfully. Let your friends be few but virtuous.
May your words be few and your actions true.
Knowing the truth is not as great as loving the truth. Loving the truth is not as great as obeying the truth.
Knowing what is virtuous but not cultivating it in one’s character;
Learning something new without thoroughly integrating it into what is known;
Seeing righteousness but not moving toward it;
Not being able to change what one knows is not healthy in one’s self;
These are all things that should provoke concern.
Boldness, untempered by the Spirit, may become rebellion.
Bravery, untempered by the Spirit, may become imprudence.
Caution, untempered by the Spirit, may become timidity.
Respect, untempered by the Spirit, may become servile flattery.
Straightforwardness, untempered by the Spirit, may become rudeness.
Acquisition of knowledge without true learning leads to dissipation of the mind.
Benevolence unguided by learning leads to foolish simplicity.
Boldness that is not preceded by learning will become rebellion.
Firmness not softened by learning will become overbearing.
Honesty untempered by learning results in rude boorishness.
Zealousness uncontrolled by learning leads to calamitous consequences.
Just as a farmer is concerned that he plow without producing a harvest, so a man should be concerned if he toils at his books without learning.
Increased knowledge that is not matched by increased virtue will either be lost or bring calamity.
Be gentle and meek, avoiding the excesses of negative passions.
Train yourself to avoid not only evil actions but even the intent.
Learn to not only accept hard work but to rejoice in it. If pride must exist in your life, let it not be in what you possess but in how hard you can work.
When you begin to be lifted up in pride, remember how long you’ve put off doing what’s right and how many specific tasks you were assigned that you neglected. Isn’t it about time to understand the nature of the world, your role in it, and the Source from which you sprang? Only a limited time has been appointed to you and if you do not soon discipline the distempers of your soul, time will soon pass away, and you with it, never to return.
Follow Hashem’s paths. Keep His mitzvoth (command/blessings) meekly; carefully refraining from mixing in worldly philosophies and studying to preserve your spirit unpolluted. Do this and you will live happily and none will ever successfully hinder you, for God will be your shield.
If an action does not follow a rule, it is either rash or rebellious. If it is rash or rebellious, it is anarchic and contrary to the common good. Rules, whether of art, science, or morality, are not restrictive but protective.
The will of God can be found in the Holy Scriptures. Tzaddikim allow their daily existence to be regulated in every phase by its precepts. However, a prerequisite to knowing the daily will of God is to be daily in the Word. We are to be “Am Hasefer”, “People of the Book.”
SIMPLICITY
Enjoy the life that Hashem grants you but do not do so in a greedy and covetous manner. Accept His gift gladly, use it circumspectly and gladly put it down when it comes to an end.
People drive to the mall in cars that they cannot afford;
to spend money that they don’t have;
to buy things that they don’t need;
to impress people that they don’t like.
Acquire novel conveniences with all freedom and liberty and enjoy them without anxiety but also without affectation. Do not pursue them as a means to pride-filled bragging. Enjoy them if they are available and do no harm. Do not miss them if they become scarce or do harm.
Be kind and loving to your family. Seek to lead with only the good of your people in mind. Be as bountiful and liberal as you may be without harming yourself. Practice hopefulness; discipline yourself to cheerfulness.
Never hurry. Never procrastinate. Don’t get too perplexed by life, or dejected. Enjoy yourself but don’t be unseemly. Laugh, but let it be natural. Don’t be known for your anger or suspicion but for being always ready to do good, to forgive and speak the truth.
Let your mind be content in all things. Strive to show a cheerful countenance to all. Take care to see things afar off and do not neglect the details. Do all things quietly and humbly, without undue noise and clamor.
Keep your life as simple as possible. Don’t get caught up in many different things. Much activity does not necessarily mean something worthwhile is getting done.
Don’t be pretentious. Don’t insist on branded clothes. Don’t use a three dollar word where a two dollar one will do. Be simply yourself.
Respect men but only as men. Respect the quality of things but be neither overawed by them nor fail to appreciate them fully. Whether it be men or things, appreciate their intrinsic worth, and not any glory they may shed on you.
Despise rich but empty foods and content yourself with a simple and wholesome diet. Let health rather than palate be your guide.
In the long run you will not find anything more conducive to happiness than righteousness, truth, temperance, fortitude, and a general effort to be humbly content with your lot.
Lowlander culture will appeal to your lusts and desires. It will urge you to give in to your fancies and imaginations before fully considering the consequences. Yet, true joy lies in withdrawing from your sinful passions, obediently submitting to God, and dutifully caring for your fellow man.
People drive to the mall in cars that they cannot afford;
to spend money that they don’t have;
to buy things that they don’t need;
to impress people that they don’t like.
Acquire novel conveniences with all freedom and liberty and enjoy them without anxiety but also without affectation. Do not pursue them as a means to pride-filled bragging. Enjoy them if they are available and do no harm. Do not miss them if they become scarce or do harm.
Be kind and loving to your family. Seek to lead with only the good of your people in mind. Be as bountiful and liberal as you may be without harming yourself. Practice hopefulness; discipline yourself to cheerfulness.
Never hurry. Never procrastinate. Don’t get too perplexed by life, or dejected. Enjoy yourself but don’t be unseemly. Laugh, but let it be natural. Don’t be known for your anger or suspicion but for being always ready to do good, to forgive and speak the truth.
Let your mind be content in all things. Strive to show a cheerful countenance to all. Take care to see things afar off and do not neglect the details. Do all things quietly and humbly, without undue noise and clamor.
Keep your life as simple as possible. Don’t get caught up in many different things. Much activity does not necessarily mean something worthwhile is getting done.
Don’t be pretentious. Don’t insist on branded clothes. Don’t use a three dollar word where a two dollar one will do. Be simply yourself.
Respect men but only as men. Respect the quality of things but be neither overawed by them nor fail to appreciate them fully. Whether it be men or things, appreciate their intrinsic worth, and not any glory they may shed on you.
Despise rich but empty foods and content yourself with a simple and wholesome diet. Let health rather than palate be your guide.
In the long run you will not find anything more conducive to happiness than righteousness, truth, temperance, fortitude, and a general effort to be humbly content with your lot.
Lowlander culture will appeal to your lusts and desires. It will urge you to give in to your fancies and imaginations before fully considering the consequences. Yet, true joy lies in withdrawing from your sinful passions, obediently submitting to God, and dutifully caring for your fellow man.
SPEECH
Do not use pretentious language. Your ambition should not entail being a great talker for in the multitude of words and in great affectation lies much sin.
Be such a person that your words and actions neither need an oath nor anyone to ensure their sure and faithful accomplishment.
Be such a person that your words and actions neither need an oath nor anyone to ensure their sure and faithful accomplishment.
SUFFERING
Allow neither pain nor pleasure, regardless of the type or source, to cause you to deviate from the pursuit of God’s will. Be neither controlled by pleasure nor daunted by pain.
When you suffer, rejoice at the lessons in character you are learning. If you cannot suffer joyfully, at least suffer patiently. If you cannot suffer patiently, at least suffer silently. If you cannot suffer silently but must cry out, then cry out to God and not men.
If you have the choice of suffering injustice or acting unjustly, choose victimization over dishonor.
A wise man was observed to be suffering from want. A young man, apparently nonplussed, asked, “Why should the wise be poor? Of what use then is wisdom?” The tzaddik replied, “The wise endure want like anyone else. But the rasha, when he suffers, either gives in to self-pity or license.”
In every calamity, whether great or small, ask yourself “What have I gained from this? How can my spirit and soul be improved through this?”
When you awake tell yourself, “Today I will have to do with all manner of wicked people whose evil will largely be based on ignorance rather than true ill intent. My spirit cannot be harmed. My soul will be marred only if I allow it. My body is disposable. Who can ever separate me from the love of God?” Then get on with it.
When you suffer, rejoice at the lessons in character you are learning. If you cannot suffer joyfully, at least suffer patiently. If you cannot suffer patiently, at least suffer silently. If you cannot suffer silently but must cry out, then cry out to God and not men.
If you have the choice of suffering injustice or acting unjustly, choose victimization over dishonor.
A wise man was observed to be suffering from want. A young man, apparently nonplussed, asked, “Why should the wise be poor? Of what use then is wisdom?” The tzaddik replied, “The wise endure want like anyone else. But the rasha, when he suffers, either gives in to self-pity or license.”
In every calamity, whether great or small, ask yourself “What have I gained from this? How can my spirit and soul be improved through this?”
When you awake tell yourself, “Today I will have to do with all manner of wicked people whose evil will largely be based on ignorance rather than true ill intent. My spirit cannot be harmed. My soul will be marred only if I allow it. My body is disposable. Who can ever separate me from the love of God?” Then get on with it.
THOUGHT LIFE
Anything taken for granted grows stale.
Don’t waste your days away fascinated by the “beautiful people”, angry or worried about the government, or concerned about what your friends, family, and neighbors are doing. Don’t do it when it’s not in relation to the common good or to the point that you are hindered from the tasks your Master has set before you.
Far too many people waste too much time with their minds filled with fancies and imaginations about other people and too little time concerned with their own character and responsibilities. I have come to believe it to be a deliberate act.
Discipline your mind so that if anyone should suddenly ask you what you are thinking, that you would be able to immediately, freely, and boldly answer without shame the precise contents of your mind. May your mind be filled with all that is sincere, peaceable, and comely, not overtaken by desires or voluptuous imaginations; free from anything that would cause you to blush were it to be discovered.
As a warrior keeps his weapons ready and at hand for sudden ambush, keep your spirit prepared to answer anyone who challenges your faith. Like a warrior, train long and hard before the battle. “It’s better to sweat in training than to bleed in battle.”
Every emotion is allowed, given the right motive. The cause and the effect are what either purify or desecrate it. Anger caused by injustice and bigotry is righteous. Lust for one’s wife is healthy. Anger rooted in pride or lust for someone forbidden will lead to chaos and death. The one who can determine the cause and effect of his emotions, choose the good and deny what is evil, is truly wise.
Don’t waste your days away fascinated by the “beautiful people”, angry or worried about the government, or concerned about what your friends, family, and neighbors are doing. Don’t do it when it’s not in relation to the common good or to the point that you are hindered from the tasks your Master has set before you.
Far too many people waste too much time with their minds filled with fancies and imaginations about other people and too little time concerned with their own character and responsibilities. I have come to believe it to be a deliberate act.
Discipline your mind so that if anyone should suddenly ask you what you are thinking, that you would be able to immediately, freely, and boldly answer without shame the precise contents of your mind. May your mind be filled with all that is sincere, peaceable, and comely, not overtaken by desires or voluptuous imaginations; free from anything that would cause you to blush were it to be discovered.
As a warrior keeps his weapons ready and at hand for sudden ambush, keep your spirit prepared to answer anyone who challenges your faith. Like a warrior, train long and hard before the battle. “It’s better to sweat in training than to bleed in battle.”
Every emotion is allowed, given the right motive. The cause and the effect are what either purify or desecrate it. Anger caused by injustice and bigotry is righteous. Lust for one’s wife is healthy. Anger rooted in pride or lust for someone forbidden will lead to chaos and death. The one who can determine the cause and effect of his emotions, choose the good and deny what is evil, is truly wise.
TIKKUN OLAM - Healing the world
Though spiritual death is the root issue of global misery, poverty and greed seem to form the trunk. The rich and powerful plunder the environment. The poor slash and burn because they are hungry. Wars are begun over resources that each destroy. We’re burning the planetary candle at both ends.
TZADDIK vs RASHA - the righteous man vs the wicked man
The tzaddik considers character.
The rasha considers comfort.
The tzaddik considers the well-being of the next generation.
The rasha considers only the favors he may receive.
The tzaddik considers the ways of righteousness.
The rasha is only concerned with personal gain.
The tzaddik is always satisfied and composed.
The rasha is always full of distress.
The tzaddik will disregard small things.
The rasha will allow anything to excuse wild license.
The tzaddik can be grave and reserved.
The rasha is perversely quarrelsome.
The tzaddik is straightforward.
The rasha deceives even when it hurts him.
Though they speak at appropriate times, silence is the virtue of the wise. The rashaim feel they must continually fill the air with their ramblings.
Rashaim can tolerate neither the hardships of poverty nor the comforts of wealth for long. Tzaddikim, their Source of peace firmly ensconced within themselves, can rest content while the varying flows of circumstance ebb and flow about them.
The tzaddik is no party man. He is neither a knee-jerk Democrat nor Republican. He is neither a hard-line Baptist nor a die-hard Methodist. The righteous man determines what is right and works toward that goal regardless of the name on the door. Rashaim perversely love affiliation with parties, teams, and denominations because it minimizes their responsibility – particularly to think. Tzaddikim simply side with God.
Tzaddikim rarely come packaged in finery, slick charm and flattering words.
The rasha will perform a “mitzvah” but then require that the favor be returned. Even if they do not say so, they will consider you in their debt nevertheless. The tzaddik will perform the mitzvah and not even consider it so. He will do the good deed and still consider himself in your debt.
The rasha is like Caesar, returning from his conquests looking for applause and adulation. The tzaddik is like the bee that works for the good of others, seeking no applause; content to lay down, rest, and breathe his last once his usefulness ceases.
In the end your life will not be measured in years but in service.
When you consider the tzaddikim, look for ways in which they may be imitated - then do so. When you consider the rashaim, turn your gaze inward and seek ways in which you are like them - then ruthlessly root those mannerisms out.
The tzaddik, in his eager pursuit of knowledge may, from time to time, forget to eat.
In the joy of attainment he may, from time to time, forget his sorrows.
As his focused gaze rests firmly on wisdom, he may even forget that old age has arrived and thus may serve until the very day he dies.
Be mild yet dignified; majestic yet approachable; worthy of respect and yet easy to get along with. Unite sincere faith to love of learning and then hold firm to these till death. Thus, you may achieve the worthy title of “tzaddik”.
The life of the tzaddik can be frustrating. Often the people may spring forth leaves but fail to proceed to flower. Sometimes a flower may bloom but the fruit does not appear. However, if the tzaddik fails to plant the seeds and tend the weeds, a failed crop is assured.
The tzaddik is familiar with heaven and thus lives with awe and respect perpetually in mind. The rasha, being unfamiliar with his God, does not know the value of respect and is thus a mocker.
Those who pursue the life of the tzaddik will soon discover a strange dichotomy; an exhilaratingly labyrinthine mental life balanced by a shockingly simple spiritual life. Like Yahweh’s natural laws, spiritual laws are deceptively simple and yet drive disconcertingly complex behavior.
The English word “ethic” comes from the Greek word “ethos” which means a habit or a custom. You will not be suddenly struck with a case of ethics. You must invest into it every day in every small way you can until it becomes a reflex.
Externals can change while the underlying principles remain the same. Consider the architecture of the Pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, and the capitol building in Washington D.C. Externally they are vastly different, yet they must be based on the same architectural principles or they would collapse. The Tzaddik makes the discovery and implementation of the underlying principles of life his science.
The rasha considers comfort.
The tzaddik considers the well-being of the next generation.
The rasha considers only the favors he may receive.
The tzaddik considers the ways of righteousness.
The rasha is only concerned with personal gain.
The tzaddik is always satisfied and composed.
The rasha is always full of distress.
The tzaddik will disregard small things.
The rasha will allow anything to excuse wild license.
The tzaddik can be grave and reserved.
The rasha is perversely quarrelsome.
The tzaddik is straightforward.
The rasha deceives even when it hurts him.
Though they speak at appropriate times, silence is the virtue of the wise. The rashaim feel they must continually fill the air with their ramblings.
Rashaim can tolerate neither the hardships of poverty nor the comforts of wealth for long. Tzaddikim, their Source of peace firmly ensconced within themselves, can rest content while the varying flows of circumstance ebb and flow about them.
The tzaddik is no party man. He is neither a knee-jerk Democrat nor Republican. He is neither a hard-line Baptist nor a die-hard Methodist. The righteous man determines what is right and works toward that goal regardless of the name on the door. Rashaim perversely love affiliation with parties, teams, and denominations because it minimizes their responsibility – particularly to think. Tzaddikim simply side with God.
Tzaddikim rarely come packaged in finery, slick charm and flattering words.
The rasha will perform a “mitzvah” but then require that the favor be returned. Even if they do not say so, they will consider you in their debt nevertheless. The tzaddik will perform the mitzvah and not even consider it so. He will do the good deed and still consider himself in your debt.
The rasha is like Caesar, returning from his conquests looking for applause and adulation. The tzaddik is like the bee that works for the good of others, seeking no applause; content to lay down, rest, and breathe his last once his usefulness ceases.
In the end your life will not be measured in years but in service.
When you consider the tzaddikim, look for ways in which they may be imitated - then do so. When you consider the rashaim, turn your gaze inward and seek ways in which you are like them - then ruthlessly root those mannerisms out.
The tzaddik, in his eager pursuit of knowledge may, from time to time, forget to eat.
In the joy of attainment he may, from time to time, forget his sorrows.
As his focused gaze rests firmly on wisdom, he may even forget that old age has arrived and thus may serve until the very day he dies.
Be mild yet dignified; majestic yet approachable; worthy of respect and yet easy to get along with. Unite sincere faith to love of learning and then hold firm to these till death. Thus, you may achieve the worthy title of “tzaddik”.
The life of the tzaddik can be frustrating. Often the people may spring forth leaves but fail to proceed to flower. Sometimes a flower may bloom but the fruit does not appear. However, if the tzaddik fails to plant the seeds and tend the weeds, a failed crop is assured.
The tzaddik is familiar with heaven and thus lives with awe and respect perpetually in mind. The rasha, being unfamiliar with his God, does not know the value of respect and is thus a mocker.
Those who pursue the life of the tzaddik will soon discover a strange dichotomy; an exhilaratingly labyrinthine mental life balanced by a shockingly simple spiritual life. Like Yahweh’s natural laws, spiritual laws are deceptively simple and yet drive disconcertingly complex behavior.
The English word “ethic” comes from the Greek word “ethos” which means a habit or a custom. You will not be suddenly struck with a case of ethics. You must invest into it every day in every small way you can until it becomes a reflex.
Externals can change while the underlying principles remain the same. Consider the architecture of the Pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, and the capitol building in Washington D.C. Externally they are vastly different, yet they must be based on the same architectural principles or they would collapse. The Tzaddik makes the discovery and implementation of the underlying principles of life his science.
VALUES AND PRIORITIES
Most people are perfectly content with the appearance and will eschew the real for the sake of the false. They are usually more moved by the symbol than by the reality it represents.
Look at the insanity of sports. You can have 60,000+ fans watch 22 guys play football. The fans go crazy, do insane things, know all the stats, argue over strategy, etc., but only 22 guys are actually playing, actually experiencing football. For the 60,000+ fans, it’s the illusion of enjoying football.
But the illusion is good enough for them because it means no discipline, no long workouts. They can spend their days in pleasure rather than in practice, yet still believe that they enjoy football. They forget that they are only watching people enjoy football.
Sadly, this contentment with the illusion transfers to relationships and religion. Modern technology, megachurches, etc., only feed this natural tendency in humans to be satisfied with the illusion of relationships (both with God and man) rather than the reality. They forget that they are only spectators of reality and become happy with the appearance.
– Lynn Pauley (summer of 2009)
You are not your body. Your body is not you. It is merely the coat your soul wears. Therefore, never let appearance be the litmus, neither for you nor for others.
Read a science book from the fifties and snort with derision. Now read 4,000 year old Job teach that the earth is a globe, describe the hydrologic cycle, and predict matters that took humans 3,900 years to discover. Meditate on that while deciding whether or not to obey the Scriptures.
Any happiness in this world is only temporary while every happiness in the afterlife is eternal. Therefore, strive with all your might to obtain every good thing you can in heaven and, as a side effect, you will find joy in this life.
Righteousness is superior to valor. A timid man, if he pursues righteousness, becomes fearless. A valorous man who does not equally possess righteousness soon becomes cruel.
Only the virtuous can love in truth or hate righteously. What would the virtuous love? He would love: acts of justice motivated by mercy; true words spoken compassionately; bold righteousness seeking to improve the world; and humble self-consciousness. What would the virtuous hate? He would hate: evil perpetrated on others; gossip and slander; cruel domineering valor; and ignorant forwardness.
All men love pleasure. But if pleasure cannot be arrived at virtuously then it is not fit to possess. All men hate pain. But if pain cannot be avoided virtuously then it must be embraced.
Never consider anything profitable that will cause you to break your word, lose your modesty, hate any man, lust after anything, or live a secret life.
Think and act as one ready to die at any moment. As for your life, consider it naught more than an ephemeral breeze, inconstant and fitful at that, prone to passing at any given moment.
Fame after life is no better than oblivion. Fame in life among humans is little better for they soon die. Scratch your name on the largest mountain and it will sooner or later erode to dust. Far better that eternal, immutable God remember your name fondly.
Don’t be so concerned about your “legacy”, your post-mortem reputation. Anyone who knows of you will soon be dead too anyway! There is only one permanent record of one’s deeds – the mind of God. Only concern yourself with how He remembers you.
When you have achieved something, take a moment to remember all the great works of man that lie far beneath the dust under our feet. Think about the yawning chasm of time that stretches as far back as forward into eternity. Keep a right view and then move on to the next achievement.
Is a precious stone intrinsically different because it is valued by men? Does adulation change the nature of anything? Then rid yourself of the need to be praised. There is only one ultimate Judge of the worth of your mitzvoth.
The free, though poor, are better off than those who are rich yet enslaved; and slavery takes many forms indeed!
Look at the insanity of sports. You can have 60,000+ fans watch 22 guys play football. The fans go crazy, do insane things, know all the stats, argue over strategy, etc., but only 22 guys are actually playing, actually experiencing football. For the 60,000+ fans, it’s the illusion of enjoying football.
But the illusion is good enough for them because it means no discipline, no long workouts. They can spend their days in pleasure rather than in practice, yet still believe that they enjoy football. They forget that they are only watching people enjoy football.
Sadly, this contentment with the illusion transfers to relationships and religion. Modern technology, megachurches, etc., only feed this natural tendency in humans to be satisfied with the illusion of relationships (both with God and man) rather than the reality. They forget that they are only spectators of reality and become happy with the appearance.
– Lynn Pauley (summer of 2009)
You are not your body. Your body is not you. It is merely the coat your soul wears. Therefore, never let appearance be the litmus, neither for you nor for others.
Read a science book from the fifties and snort with derision. Now read 4,000 year old Job teach that the earth is a globe, describe the hydrologic cycle, and predict matters that took humans 3,900 years to discover. Meditate on that while deciding whether or not to obey the Scriptures.
Any happiness in this world is only temporary while every happiness in the afterlife is eternal. Therefore, strive with all your might to obtain every good thing you can in heaven and, as a side effect, you will find joy in this life.
Righteousness is superior to valor. A timid man, if he pursues righteousness, becomes fearless. A valorous man who does not equally possess righteousness soon becomes cruel.
Only the virtuous can love in truth or hate righteously. What would the virtuous love? He would love: acts of justice motivated by mercy; true words spoken compassionately; bold righteousness seeking to improve the world; and humble self-consciousness. What would the virtuous hate? He would hate: evil perpetrated on others; gossip and slander; cruel domineering valor; and ignorant forwardness.
All men love pleasure. But if pleasure cannot be arrived at virtuously then it is not fit to possess. All men hate pain. But if pain cannot be avoided virtuously then it must be embraced.
Never consider anything profitable that will cause you to break your word, lose your modesty, hate any man, lust after anything, or live a secret life.
Think and act as one ready to die at any moment. As for your life, consider it naught more than an ephemeral breeze, inconstant and fitful at that, prone to passing at any given moment.
Fame after life is no better than oblivion. Fame in life among humans is little better for they soon die. Scratch your name on the largest mountain and it will sooner or later erode to dust. Far better that eternal, immutable God remember your name fondly.
Don’t be so concerned about your “legacy”, your post-mortem reputation. Anyone who knows of you will soon be dead too anyway! There is only one permanent record of one’s deeds – the mind of God. Only concern yourself with how He remembers you.
When you have achieved something, take a moment to remember all the great works of man that lie far beneath the dust under our feet. Think about the yawning chasm of time that stretches as far back as forward into eternity. Keep a right view and then move on to the next achievement.
Is a precious stone intrinsically different because it is valued by men? Does adulation change the nature of anything? Then rid yourself of the need to be praised. There is only one ultimate Judge of the worth of your mitzvoth.
The free, though poor, are better off than those who are rich yet enslaved; and slavery takes many forms indeed!
VIRTUE AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
In both the spiritual world and the political world, the only possible conclusion to a search for rights with our responsibilities and liberties without restraints is anarchy and eventually tyranny.
As an artist adds a little here and removes a little there, be constantly working on your character. Add sincerity, gravity, diligence, contentment with little, kindness, freedom from materialism, and generousness of spirit. Remove from your character petulance, testiness, excessiveness, and all lashon hara.
Circumstances change; character remains.
Do something often enough and it becomes you, whether for good or for ill.
If you fear people discovering it, don’t do it.
Every promise to a child that is broken is a lesson in lying.
You want to do something worthwhile? Then be worthwhile.
Nothing is truly great which is not right.
All those who are considered great in the things of this world will find their glory dies with them. So, what should concern you? Be just. Let every action be motivated by good will. Be honest. Be wise. Humbly accept the will of God.
You are human. Do your best, but you will not be able to avoid failing at something. Don’t let it cripple you. Claim Proverbs 24:16 and get going again.
Keep yourself for yourself and your God; enjoying but unspotted by pleasure; experiencing but undaunted by pain; embracing and accepting but not cast down by passion; neither committing sin nor giving in to the evil perpetrated by others.
Be the best kind of wrestler; one who fights for the highest prize of all; one who wrestles with evil both within and without your soul. Embrace the experience and let it leave you deeply dyed and drenched in righteousness.
Perform your daily tasks with true and unfeigned gravity, interest, and justice. Undertake to do this with mindfulness, living fully in the moment, using the task to free yourself of all other cares and imaginations. Discipline your soul to treat each action as though it were your last.
Free yourself from all vanity, all passion-driven deviation from reason, from hypocrisy, self-love, and the narcissistic dislike of whatever fate the Lord God has set for you.
Proverbs 20:6 asks “who can find a trustworthy human”? Live in such a manner that Hashem will be able to look down from His heavenly throne at you and say “Ah! Here’s one!”
As rules and order distinguish music from cacophony, so God’s principles of living differentiate the useful from the useless life.
Live uprightly. Live temperately. Humbly put the needs of others ahead of your own. Be courteous, agreeable, and gracious. You will by these methods be honored by both God and men.
Love the virtuous. Pity the sinful.
The wise will avoid evil as they would shrink from seizing a poisonous snake. However, shrinking from evil is not enough because one is still within its proximity. Thus, the wise actively pursue righteousness as though their very lives depend on it.
“As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks”. Discipline your mind and your body will soon follow. Discipline your body often enough and the inculcated habits will make disciplining your mind on the issue easier.
Virtue is one’s personal responsibility. It cannot be delegated – not even to one’s rebbe.
Improve your garden weekly. Improve your spirit daily.
Seeing the good and yet not doing the good can only stem from one of two things: wickedness or cowardice.
The man who hears, recognizes and obeys truth during the day, can sleep at peace through the night – regardless of his circumstances.
It is the excellence of character that identifies the value of a man. A man who selects friends with no character – what hope is there for such a fool?
It is the excellence of character in another that draws a man of character. A man who selects friends with no character – what does this say of him?
As rotten wood cannot be carved, so Hashem cannot mold anything useful of a soul that stubbornly clings to its sins.
If only the world admired virtue as much as it loves beauty!
In all things love and pursue righteousness. Bring about justice by just means. Undertake mitzvoth humbly. Complete them sincerely.
The rich and powerful, for all their temporary advantages, may die with no one praising them sincerely. The virtuous, though they may starve to death, will be well-spoken of throughout time. Which then is the superior pursuit?
All humans are by nature alike. It is in their actions that they diverge.
Be grave and you will earn respect.
Be generous and you will earn good will.
Be sincere and you will earn trust.
Be committed and you will earn advancement.
Be kind and you will earn loyalty.
What the heart is full of, eventually the man will do.
Some argue for acceptance of their sin, “I was born feeling this way” but does not every man struggle with the vagaries of the yetzer hara? Freedom lies not in yielding but in resisting these inclinations. In withstanding the yetzer hara lies peace.
Relish true liberty – freedom from sin and freedom to bring about justice and righteousness.
Most men reveal their intemperance in what they want, or weakness in what they lack. Learn how to want and enjoy things while remaining firm and constant. Maintain moderation and sobriety in either state and you will win the reputation of a perfect and invincible soul.
Spend some time each day, even if it is only a moment or two, pondering your death. Don’t worry about it. Simply consider what you want others to say of you then go live in such a manner that they will.
When we measure ourselves by others we show lack of understanding (2 Corinthians 10:12). Don’t try to be better than everyone else. Simply try each day to be a little better for the sake of the One who died for you.
Righteous living offers a double blessing; the blessing one enjoys at the time and the second pleasure of reliving it in memory as an old person.
God truly exists and cares for this world. As for good and evil, virtue and vice, these have been placed in our power, so that we may with Hashem’s help avoid them if we will. Why should we complain of a situation in which we have the ability to better ourselves or to worsen our condition?
Never mind what task lies before you; your responsibility remains the same. Strive to see in your fellow man more character than is truly his. Strive to inculcate that virtue and honor in him that you long to see in yourself. Strive to see everywhere Christ himself.
May the clarion of the trumpet sounding retreat from this life find you exhausted but content that you have fought the good fight, ready to expedite your departure for your heavenly home and your sure reward.
There are those without books who are nevertheless wise. There are those with books who remain foolish. There are those who are uneducated fools and others who are educated and wise. Thus, the only thing that counts is the inner virtue – not the external opportunities.
As an artist adds a little here and removes a little there, be constantly working on your character. Add sincerity, gravity, diligence, contentment with little, kindness, freedom from materialism, and generousness of spirit. Remove from your character petulance, testiness, excessiveness, and all lashon hara.
Circumstances change; character remains.
Do something often enough and it becomes you, whether for good or for ill.
If you fear people discovering it, don’t do it.
Every promise to a child that is broken is a lesson in lying.
You want to do something worthwhile? Then be worthwhile.
Nothing is truly great which is not right.
All those who are considered great in the things of this world will find their glory dies with them. So, what should concern you? Be just. Let every action be motivated by good will. Be honest. Be wise. Humbly accept the will of God.
You are human. Do your best, but you will not be able to avoid failing at something. Don’t let it cripple you. Claim Proverbs 24:16 and get going again.
Keep yourself for yourself and your God; enjoying but unspotted by pleasure; experiencing but undaunted by pain; embracing and accepting but not cast down by passion; neither committing sin nor giving in to the evil perpetrated by others.
Be the best kind of wrestler; one who fights for the highest prize of all; one who wrestles with evil both within and without your soul. Embrace the experience and let it leave you deeply dyed and drenched in righteousness.
Perform your daily tasks with true and unfeigned gravity, interest, and justice. Undertake to do this with mindfulness, living fully in the moment, using the task to free yourself of all other cares and imaginations. Discipline your soul to treat each action as though it were your last.
Free yourself from all vanity, all passion-driven deviation from reason, from hypocrisy, self-love, and the narcissistic dislike of whatever fate the Lord God has set for you.
Proverbs 20:6 asks “who can find a trustworthy human”? Live in such a manner that Hashem will be able to look down from His heavenly throne at you and say “Ah! Here’s one!”
As rules and order distinguish music from cacophony, so God’s principles of living differentiate the useful from the useless life.
Live uprightly. Live temperately. Humbly put the needs of others ahead of your own. Be courteous, agreeable, and gracious. You will by these methods be honored by both God and men.
Love the virtuous. Pity the sinful.
The wise will avoid evil as they would shrink from seizing a poisonous snake. However, shrinking from evil is not enough because one is still within its proximity. Thus, the wise actively pursue righteousness as though their very lives depend on it.
“As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks”. Discipline your mind and your body will soon follow. Discipline your body often enough and the inculcated habits will make disciplining your mind on the issue easier.
Virtue is one’s personal responsibility. It cannot be delegated – not even to one’s rebbe.
Improve your garden weekly. Improve your spirit daily.
Seeing the good and yet not doing the good can only stem from one of two things: wickedness or cowardice.
The man who hears, recognizes and obeys truth during the day, can sleep at peace through the night – regardless of his circumstances.
It is the excellence of character that identifies the value of a man. A man who selects friends with no character – what hope is there for such a fool?
It is the excellence of character in another that draws a man of character. A man who selects friends with no character – what does this say of him?
As rotten wood cannot be carved, so Hashem cannot mold anything useful of a soul that stubbornly clings to its sins.
If only the world admired virtue as much as it loves beauty!
In all things love and pursue righteousness. Bring about justice by just means. Undertake mitzvoth humbly. Complete them sincerely.
The rich and powerful, for all their temporary advantages, may die with no one praising them sincerely. The virtuous, though they may starve to death, will be well-spoken of throughout time. Which then is the superior pursuit?
All humans are by nature alike. It is in their actions that they diverge.
Be grave and you will earn respect.
Be generous and you will earn good will.
Be sincere and you will earn trust.
Be committed and you will earn advancement.
Be kind and you will earn loyalty.
What the heart is full of, eventually the man will do.
Some argue for acceptance of their sin, “I was born feeling this way” but does not every man struggle with the vagaries of the yetzer hara? Freedom lies not in yielding but in resisting these inclinations. In withstanding the yetzer hara lies peace.
Relish true liberty – freedom from sin and freedom to bring about justice and righteousness.
Most men reveal their intemperance in what they want, or weakness in what they lack. Learn how to want and enjoy things while remaining firm and constant. Maintain moderation and sobriety in either state and you will win the reputation of a perfect and invincible soul.
Spend some time each day, even if it is only a moment or two, pondering your death. Don’t worry about it. Simply consider what you want others to say of you then go live in such a manner that they will.
When we measure ourselves by others we show lack of understanding (2 Corinthians 10:12). Don’t try to be better than everyone else. Simply try each day to be a little better for the sake of the One who died for you.
Righteous living offers a double blessing; the blessing one enjoys at the time and the second pleasure of reliving it in memory as an old person.
God truly exists and cares for this world. As for good and evil, virtue and vice, these have been placed in our power, so that we may with Hashem’s help avoid them if we will. Why should we complain of a situation in which we have the ability to better ourselves or to worsen our condition?
Never mind what task lies before you; your responsibility remains the same. Strive to see in your fellow man more character than is truly his. Strive to inculcate that virtue and honor in him that you long to see in yourself. Strive to see everywhere Christ himself.
May the clarion of the trumpet sounding retreat from this life find you exhausted but content that you have fought the good fight, ready to expedite your departure for your heavenly home and your sure reward.
There are those without books who are nevertheless wise. There are those with books who remain foolish. There are those who are uneducated fools and others who are educated and wise. Thus, the only thing that counts is the inner virtue – not the external opportunities.
WAR
It is an unfortunate fact that wicked, foolish people often do not listen to anything but the whip. Sometimes, they do not even listen to that!
To allow terrorists to have the run of the world community because we lack the moral fortitude to withstand them is no different than allowing a serial rapist to run free in our neighborhood because we want to “understand where he’s coming from.”
A common error held by pacifists is that those who believe in capital punishment or the righteousness of self-defense or just warfare have a low view of human life. It is the exact opposite. We hold to such a high view of the value of every individual that we will fight tooth and nail to make sure that not one more life is lost unnecessarily.
To allow terrorists to have the run of the world community because we lack the moral fortitude to withstand them is no different than allowing a serial rapist to run free in our neighborhood because we want to “understand where he’s coming from.”
A common error held by pacifists is that those who believe in capital punishment or the righteousness of self-defense or just warfare have a low view of human life. It is the exact opposite. We hold to such a high view of the value of every individual that we will fight tooth and nail to make sure that not one more life is lost unnecessarily.
WISDOM
Make a goal to discover wise men and women. Track them down and observe them. Read their writings. Speak to them. Observe the end of their lives. Determine those things they avoid and those things to which they cling. Then imitate them.
Place justice and wisdom above all other pursuits.
Like a stream that flows day and night, so is the wisdom that proceeds from the Righteous Judge. Happy the man that wades in and drinks deep!
The wise man will look for solutions in God and himself. The fool looks for answers in others.
Whether they disagree with your point of view, be ready to hear anyone that has something to say about the common good. Generally and impartially give every man his due. Consult anyone with intelligence and education, but patiently hear all men.
Balance wisdom with courage and meekness. Wisdom can bring boldness built on the confidence of knowledge truly acquired and applied. Boldness can translate into the courage to do the right thing no matter how afraid you are. However, courage must be balanced by meekness for true wisdom will also inform you how little you truly know.
When you passionately seek Him with your whole heart (Jeremiah 29:13; 24:7; Deuteronomy 4:29) and obey what He has already shown you (John 14:15; 1 John 5:2), your path will be made more clear.
Determine in your heart not only to study the law of the Lord, but to obey it and to teach its statutes and ordinances to the world. (Ezra 7:10)
Place justice and wisdom above all other pursuits.
Like a stream that flows day and night, so is the wisdom that proceeds from the Righteous Judge. Happy the man that wades in and drinks deep!
The wise man will look for solutions in God and himself. The fool looks for answers in others.
Whether they disagree with your point of view, be ready to hear anyone that has something to say about the common good. Generally and impartially give every man his due. Consult anyone with intelligence and education, but patiently hear all men.
Balance wisdom with courage and meekness. Wisdom can bring boldness built on the confidence of knowledge truly acquired and applied. Boldness can translate into the courage to do the right thing no matter how afraid you are. However, courage must be balanced by meekness for true wisdom will also inform you how little you truly know.
When you passionately seek Him with your whole heart (Jeremiah 29:13; 24:7; Deuteronomy 4:29) and obey what He has already shown you (John 14:15; 1 John 5:2), your path will be made more clear.
Determine in your heart not only to study the law of the Lord, but to obey it and to teach its statutes and ordinances to the world. (Ezra 7:10)
WORSHIP
One may worship God equally well by either fasting or feasting. One is not intrinsically superior to the other. It takes both Yom Kippur and Yom Teruah to have a balanced, healthy relationship with God.
One may worship God equally well alone in the woods or surrounded by chattering people and clanging machines. Alone kneeling in the prayer closet or standing in the midst of the congregation…both are right. To everything there is a time and a season.
How can you worship that which you do not love? And how can you love that which you do not value? And how can you value that for which you make no sacrifice? Worship without sacrifice is not worship at all.
One may worship God equally well alone in the woods or surrounded by chattering people and clanging machines. Alone kneeling in the prayer closet or standing in the midst of the congregation…both are right. To everything there is a time and a season.
How can you worship that which you do not love? And how can you love that which you do not value? And how can you value that for which you make no sacrifice? Worship without sacrifice is not worship at all.
YETZER HARA
Legalism is an aspect of externalism. We all tend to merely cleanse the outside of the cup. We keep the form of godliness without realizing the truth of it. The principal reason for the emphasis on the external is that we CAN keep the outside clean but the internal is entirely beyond our power. We cannot recognize that we are subject to the demands of God’s justice and love without recognizing the unattainableness of any righteousness of our own. Therefore, we are inclined to set up a lower, more external, more attainable standard. Who among us can look into himself, honestly and in the light of God’s truth, and not see “dead men’s bones and all uncleanness?” (Matthew 23:27)
I will never understand those who are:
Passionate about God and yet unrighteous;
Ignorant and yet inattentive to learning;
Simple and yet insincere.
Most people shy from guilt as they would from physical pain and try to not think of what they did, moving on as quickly as they can. However, they fail to fully learn the lessons their psychic pain can provide. Think about your sin. Trace it back to the root cause; the very first thought or action that eventually led you to your crime. Then you will know your enemy. You will know what to resist in the future.
The great tragedy of the yetzer hara is that there is never a day when our strength is insufficient to avoid evil or to do good. We are fully capable, yet we willfully suppress the truth. We willingly step into the abyss and then curse God for failing to catch us as we plunge to our demise. This is why God is right in judging us. But this is also why we can never take pride in our righteous acts for when we do the good we must still consider ourselves “unfaithful servants” for we have simply done what we could and should (Luke 17:7-10).
I will never understand those who are:
Passionate about God and yet unrighteous;
Ignorant and yet inattentive to learning;
Simple and yet insincere.
Most people shy from guilt as they would from physical pain and try to not think of what they did, moving on as quickly as they can. However, they fail to fully learn the lessons their psychic pain can provide. Think about your sin. Trace it back to the root cause; the very first thought or action that eventually led you to your crime. Then you will know your enemy. You will know what to resist in the future.
The great tragedy of the yetzer hara is that there is never a day when our strength is insufficient to avoid evil or to do good. We are fully capable, yet we willfully suppress the truth. We willingly step into the abyss and then curse God for failing to catch us as we plunge to our demise. This is why God is right in judging us. But this is also why we can never take pride in our righteous acts for when we do the good we must still consider ourselves “unfaithful servants” for we have simply done what we could and should (Luke 17:7-10).
