One day, a rich merchant came to Dov Ber, the Maggid (Jewish traditional preacher) from Mezhirich. The Rebbe was just eating a modest meal with his disciples, and the merchant joined them.
“Tell me,” asked the Maggid, “you are a rich and pious man.” What do you eat?
The merchant was flattered that the Maggid mentioned not only his wealth, but also his religious zeal. After all, indeed, he worked by the sweat of his brow both in matters of commerce and in the field of faith.
“You see, rabbi,” the guest began, clearly pleased with himself, “I could afford the most exquisite dishes, but I’m afraid that they might lead me astray from the righteous path.” That’s why I limit myself to the food of the poorest: a piece of bread and a pinch of salt.
- What a blasphemous disregard for the Creator! - exclaimed the Maggid. “He blessed you with wealth and power, and you refuse the joys that accompany them.” This insults God, who gave you such blessings. From now on, eat meat and drink good wine every day!
The guest was shocked. The disciples of the Maggid were also in confusion. When the merchant left, they began to ask the rabbi to explain these words. After all, it is obvious that the merchant sincerely tried to avoid worldly temptations, and the Maggid reproached him for precisely this.
“Maybe so,” answered Dov Ber. “But I’ll say this: if this rich man begins to eat meat and drink wine, he will undoubtedly understand that the poor need at least bread and salt.” If he himself makes do with bread and salt, he will soon come to the conclusion that water and stones are enough for the poor man.
Commentary by Rami Shapiro What virtue underlies the deepest faith? Self-deprecation? Humility? Thorough execution of the rituals of your religion? For Dov Ber, that virtue is generosity. The rich and pious merchant perceived his wealth as a temptation, a test of will. He could have enjoyed wealth, but did not do so, for he was afraid of showing a lack of pious humility. That’s why he lived like a beggar, which he was proud of. This merchant made a number of mistakes. Firstly, he did not use the gifts that he received from life, and therefore he behaved ungratefully. Secondly, he did not share his wealth with others, and therefore showed stinginess. Third, he did not understand the true nature of human service to God: to do good to others. And that means he could not love his neighbor as himself. Or could he?
He probably still loved his neighbor as himself. But the problem was that he didn’t love himself enough. Rebbe Dov Ber wanted this man to love himself so that he could love God and his neighbor. You are here to serve God by acting Godly towards those around you and, ultimately, towards life itself. Share the gifts of the Creator with others.
He who truly loves God loves life and all living things. Accept the gifts life brings, enjoy them and make the best of them. Then you will discover within yourself a generosity of spirit that will open your heart and your palms so that you can share your gifts with the world.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru