Jolting Joke
Fascinating Insights | August 28, 2026
Jolting Joke
R' Avraham Genichovsky would say that a person can solve all the world's problems with a good joke. Whenever he sensed tension between people, he would lighten the mood with a well-timed joke, transforming the atmosphere and helping everyone relax.
He would cite the pasuk, כִּי בְשִׂמְחָה תֵצֵאוּ in joy you shall go out,14 explaining that joy has the power to free a person from life's troubles. A cheerful spirit can dissolve tension, lift burdens, and open the way to overcoming difficulties.
R' Nachum Shadiker was negotiating with someone on a business deal when suddenly the man began to shout at him. R' Nachum calmy said, "Don't shout. Someone might think that you are angry with me." With this joke the squabble faded.
View The Full Article (PDF)