Hashgachahh Pratis in the Sefarim Hakedoshim
Excerpts from the popular shiur by Harav Yehuda Mandels shlit”a from Lakewood
Free Will and Bitachon
In Parshas Kedoshim we learn about the transgression of taking revenge and bearing a grudge. The Sefer Hachinuch (mitzvah 241) explains that the transgression of taking revenge comes from the recognition that the true Source of the deed that our friend did to us is Hakadosh Baruch Hu, and our aveiros are what caused it. Instead of being angry at the other person, we need to be angry at ourselves and at our sins.
It is told about Dovid Hamelech that when Shimi ben Geira cursed him, he said, “Hashem told him to curse David...leave him alone, let him curse, for Hashem told him to do so” (Shmuel II, 16:10-11). Although Dovid Hamelech’s character was naturally quick to anger, he knew how to control his yetzer hara. He always davened for his enemies and stood at their side, and he did not get angry at them. This proves that every person has the choice of whether to overcome his nature or to surrender to it. Another lesson that comes from this story is that one who trusts in Hashem does not become angry at others, because he knows that everything is coming from Hashem.
A person who trusts in Hashem and is happy with his lot will find it much easier to see the good in others. Throughout Pesach we said, dozens of times, Atah bechartanu – a tefillah filled with self-value, words such as “V’romamtanu” – and You uplifted us above all the other nations! And more. This teaches us how much Hashem yisbarach wants us to be happy with our lot and with the reality of our lives. A true eved Hashem will invest much time in fostering his own appreciation for his good attributes as an eved Hashem, for without this it will be very difficult for him to overcome his nature and to hold himself back from getting angry at his friends. When a person is satisfied with himself, he is happy. And when he is truly happy with himself, it is easier for him to love others. His joy spreads to those around him as well, and all the jealousy and anger disappear.
