Divrei Torah on the Weekly Parasha by Rabbi Dov Keilson, Mashgiach Ruchani, Mesivta Chaim Shlomo
in Memory of Avinoam Grossman
עֲשֵׂה לְךָ רַב וּקְנֵה לְךָ חָבֵר
The Torah teaches us the importance of having both a Rebbi and a friend. A Rebbi guides us with wisdom and experience, helping us grow in Torah and character. A friend, on the other hand, supports us, encourages us, and helps us stay strong in our commitments. Together, these relationships form the foundation of a healthy spiritual life.
As the pasuk says, וְשָׁפְטוּ אֶת הָעָם מִשְׁפַּט צֶדֶק—the people are to be judged with righteousness. This applies not only to judges in a court, but to each of us in our daily interactions. We must judge others favorably, giving them the benefit of the doubt and seeking to understand their perspective.
When we have a Rebbi to guide us and a friend to support us, we are better equipped to fulfill the mitzvah of בְּצֶדֶק תִּשְׁפֹּט עֲמִיתֶךָ—to judge our fellow with righteousness. Let us strive to build these relationships and strengthen our communities through kindness, understanding, and mutual respect.
