Create Your World
Rabbi Shmuel Elchonon Brog On Parshas Ki Teitzei
The first passuk in this parashah teaches us that in the heat of battle against an enemy nation, the taking of an attractive non-Jewish woman is permissible to a Jewish soldier. However, the result of this union will be the birth of a boy who will go after his material desires. What the boy does — eating meat and drinking wine in large amounts — isn’t really on the same level as committing murder or adultery. Yet, if he doesn’t stop his destructive behavior, he is killed. How are we to understand this? The answer is that what appears inexplicable to us is actually revealing the truth of the Torah. Here, this young boy’s act represents a deep flaw in his character. The Torah is saving him from himself with this death sentence. The Torah is teaching us that every single act a person does is looked at seriously. That’s why the Gemara touches upon every aspect and detail in life. Not only are a person’s actions under scrutiny, but also his every word. One must examine all the ramifications of his words before reacting to people. This applies not only to how one behaves with one’s spouse and family members, but with one’s neighbors and colleagues at school or work as well. But people need directions to avoid improper behavior and speech. Where can that direction be found? The only answer is to “make for yourself
a Rav” (Pirkei Avos 1:6) who can help you distinguish between actions that are right and those that are wrong. By developing a close tie to a spiritual teacher, you will hear what is proper for you to do in every situation that arises. Many of Rebbi’s talmidim have continued on their own paths and illuminated the way for others. This was done by Rebbi’s direction and personal advice. Lesson: Make for yourself a Rav. Rebbi taught: Rebbi encouraged our relationships with him and imbued in us strength and confidence to follow the ways of Hashem. Excerpted from the book “Create Your World” by BenTzion Greiper.