A grandson of the Chofetz Chaim came to Rav Aharon Kotler and asked him why it is that his grandfather, who was a Gaon Olam (great Torah scholar and sage) and even wrote works such as the Mishna Brura which clearly prove it, was acknowledged by the world as a great tzaddik, but less so as the great Gaon that he was?
Rav Aharon had no answer, but since he was on his way to visit the Brisker Rov, suggested the grandson join him, so he could ask the Brisker Rov this question.
When they asked the Brisker Rov, he answered, "Retzon Yerie'av Yaaseh, Hashem does the will of those who fear Him.” Rav Aharon explained that apparently the Chofetz Chaim davened to Hashem, begging Him to keep his Torah greatness hidden from the world.
"If so," asked the grandson, "why was his righteousness not hidden as well?" To that, Rav Aharon had a very simple answer. The Chofetz Chaim clearly understood his breadth and depth of Torah were astounding and far beyond the rest of the generation.
However, when it came to tzidkus, the Chofetz Chaim did not see himself as any more special than any Jew trying to serve his Creator to the best of his abilities. Therefore, he didn't think he had any notoriety in this area, and saw no reason to daven!
©2024 – J. Gewirtz
