Reb Yisrael turned to his host and said, "now do you understand? This is what I wanted you to see. Singing Zemiros Shabbos is a very great thing, Divrei Torah are priceless, there is no greater pleasure. But not at the expense of your helper, even if she is getting paid for her work. Being sensitive to her is something we were taught at Har Sinai, that even a non Jewish maid that was bought at full price, the Torah commands us not to over work her." We must get our priorities right. We must strive for the greatest level of Kedusha and spirituality but not at someone else's expense.
More in this printout
- Bribery and the Human HeartA story from Rabbi Chavita Sofer illustrates how bribery blinds judgment and how our own desires can act as a bribe, preventing us from internalizing Torah valu
- Motivating Ourselves and Our ChildrenExplore the Rambam's approach to motivation in Torah study, using age-appropriate incentives to cultivate a love for Mitzvos in ourselves and our children.
- The Importance of Interpersonal MitzvosAn exploration of why Parshas Mishpatim focuses on interpersonal laws immediately following the Revelation at Sinai, emphasizing sensitivity to others.
- Sensitivity to Others: Stories of the GreatA powerful story of Rabbi Yisrael Salanter demonstrating extreme sensitivity to a cook's needs by rushing a Shabbos meal to let her return home to her family.
- The Chafetz Chaim and the Value of CompassionA moving story about the Chafetz Chaim's sensitivity toward a widow and orphan, demonstrating that compassion takes precedence over personal spiritual rewards.
- Chessed Without Burden: Lessons from Avraham AvinuExplore how Avraham Avinu's hospitality teaches us to perform acts of kindness without burdening others, and the lasting impact of his actions on Jewish history