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Ki Teze: A Noble Purpose
Submitted by on August 20, 2006 – 2:27 amNo Comment | 2,222 views
Everything, but The Pillow
In this week’s Parsha we learn that a creditor is permitted to demand collateral before offering a loan even if the debtor is impoverished. However, the Torah enjoins us not to demand an article that the debtor would require during the normal course of his day. For example, if one leverages his only pillow the creditor must return it for use during the night.
The Torah concludes with the words, “and to you it shall be a charity before Hashem your lord.” Rashi, a primary commentary on the Torah, explains that even if the debtor will not bless you for this kind act it will be a meritorious act before G-d.
Reb Levik of Bardichev, an early Chassidic Master, expounded upon Rashi’s idea.
Raison D’etre
Some perform a kind deed because they seek the blessing or good graces of the recipient. This verse teaches that the best way to perform a Mitzvah is not for the reward, though it will inevitably come, but simply for the sake of Hashem.
“And to you this will be a charity before Hashem – Your lord.” We should perform this charity because Hashem commanded us to, not because there is something in it for us. This concept can be taken one step further. Charity should be given for the sake of the Mitzvah not for the sake of the reward promised by G-d.
Story
The Besht was once informed by heavenly decree that he had lost his share in the world to come, whereupon, he joyfully declared that he now had the opportunity to serve G-d with no ulterior motive, not even that of heavenly reward. For this response he was soon informed that his heavenly portion had not only been restored but had in fact been doubled. . .
