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SILENCE THE VIRTUE OF
J
udaism teaches that one ought to be moderate and careful in one’s speech; and seek to reduce the quantity of words that stream from his mouth. According to the Rambam in Hilchot Deiot 2:4,
RABBI REUVEN MANN
“A person should increase silence and refrain from speaking, except in matters of wisdom and practical necessities… The Rabbis said ‘ whoever engages in excessive speech brings on sin. And they further said, ‘I have not found anything as good for one’s body as silence.” The contemporary culture is clearly at odds with this philosophy. It extols the external visible personality features, such as charm and smooth-speech. In fact, a recent President with little in the way of solid achievement to recommend him, came to national prominence on the basis of his exceptional oratorical talent. The superficial culture of the times has brought about the phenomenon, of people in the entertainment industry uttering “sage” insights on serious matters which are beyond their realm of expertise.
In fact, it is interesting to note how many entertainers–including athletes–have taken to growing beards. Why would they seek to adopt a “look” which is more appropriate to “Charedi” Jews? In my opinion, it is because they are not satisfied to be applauded for their performance skills. They want people to believe, that they have more to offer than mere entertainment. Indeed, they fancy themselves as very profound people, whose insights on all matters should be considered. Look at the Academy Awards which no one watches anymore; because, among other things, one must put up with pompous actresses and bearded actors pontificating on all types of political matters, on which they have really nothing to offer. Silence would serve them well. They would be well advised, in the words of Laura Ingraham, to just “shut up and sing.” Recently, Whoopi Goldberg (who chose a Jewish sounding name to bolster her career–how’s that for cultural appropriation?) landed herself in hot water, for some reckless speech. I have often said, that man’s tongue is his own worst enemy. Whoopi hurt herself, by denying that the
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FEB.11, 2022
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