Ohr HaChaim Selections

Man and Wife

‘It is not good for man to be alone’ (2:18)

The Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh asks why HaShem originally created Odom and Chava as one being and later separated them into a male and female, unlike the animals, which were created male and female, separate from the outset? Why was mankind not created as two humans, male and female?

He answers that the Torah is defining the difference between human relationships and animal relationships. Animals have many mates; generally, any male and female animals have offspring, and the idea of a loyal marriage is unique to mankind. Only among humans do we find that males and females marry, have families and acquire their spouses as their mates for life. Such a concept is foreign to animals, which mate and bear offspring from many partners, with no unique relationship.

But the unique relationship of marriage, of man and wife, is a human one, which HaShem created for Odom and Chava by initially forming them from one body and only then cutting them in half, separating them so that they would have to rejoin as one flesh. This quest to rejoin is why HaShem initially created them as one. May HaShem bless our families with sholom and ahava, that we each cling to our sole mates and soulmates and build happy families in Klal Yisrael.

Putting Things Into Perspective

‘Bereishis bara Elokim- In the beginning G’d created …’

Rashi cites Chaza’l who explain that the Torah refers to G’d with the appellation of ‘Elokim’ to connote that existence was brought about through the Attribute of Justice. In contrast the appellation ‘HaShem (YKVK)’ connotes G’d’s Attribute of Mercy.

Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh explains that the Torah is telling us that in essence the Attribute of Justice represents goodness and kindness (tov v’chesed). Bringing about the creation of the world was itself an act of kindness and goodness – providing unlimited opportunity for mankind. Before the sin of Adam, existence was untainted and pure. It was a setting in which man could have advanced to a level of perfection within moments. However, because of the sin of Adam that same accomplishment will take 6000 years, as explained by Ramchal.

Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh continues, ‘This is the meaning of the verse ‘HaShem hu haElokim – HaShem (YKVK) is Elokim.’ Meaning, that although Elokim connotes the Attribute of Justice, it is in essence one in the same with goodness and kindness. There is no distinction between the two appellations – HaShem and Elokim. All of the events that have relevance to existence are meant to present mankind with the ultimate opportunity and provide kindness to him.’ For example, if one is in need to have a gangrenous limb removed in order for him to live, one may perceive it as the ultimate act of cruelty because it severely limits and handicaps the individual. However, in its essence it is the ultimate act of mercy because it is only through this procedure that the individual will be able to live. The Attribute of Justice is exacting in meting out punishment. When one transgresses, he is deserving of retribution. However, the pain and suffering that one experiences is only meant to spiritually rehabilitate him. This is the manner in which the Attribute of Justice is in essence an act of Mercy.

Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh explains, ‘The blessing that Yitzhak had given to his son Yaakov states, ‘And may Elokim give you of the dew of the heavens and of the fatness of the earth…’ The ultimate blessing which Yitzchak had given emanates from Elokim. It is the Attribute of Justice (Elokim) that gives blessing gratis. Despite the fact there was no one before existence to merit its creation, G’d created the world through the Attribute of Justice. The Attribute of Justice manifests itself in severe punishment only to assist the individual. However, at the end of time there will be a level of clarity that all will know that G’d is One and His Name is One. Meaning, HaShem (YKVK)/ the Attribute of Mercy is in fact one with Elokim (Attribute of Justice).’