More Than the Act
But that’s not the end of the story. Listen to what the Chachomim said about that: “But there were many others who did that and it didn’t help them.”
We have to understand this exchange. The Chachomim didn’t accept this? After all, it’s a virtue. A woman who is alone in her home, nobody is present, what’s wrong if she uncovers her hair? Isn’t it an exceptional behavior of Kimchis, a high level of tzniyus that she never allowed her hair to be seen by her ceiling?
But the Chachomim weren’t impressed. They testified there were many Jewish women who lived that way and they didn’t merit such a reward. In the ancient times—not only ancient times; even a hundred years ago, even fifty years ago—there were a lot of women who were very pious, very observant, far beyond the line of duty. “So it can’t be that,” they said.
“Kimchis,” the Sages said, “You were doing more than the mere act of keeping your hair covered. You were thinking too! You were imagining that the ceiling is looking at you.”
What the Chachomim were saying is that it’s not the mere act that accomplishes such greatness. Of course, the act on its own is important but you become especially holy, especially great, when you invest thoughts in your acts. True greatness depends how much you invest of your mind.
