Parsha

The word “לרעך” (your neighbor) is famously interpreted by R' Nachman of Breslov (Likutey Moharan 165) through a unique reading. Because the Torah is written without vowels, the word can also be read as “le'ra'acha”—your troubles.

This interpretation suggests that one should accept with love all the troubles and afflictions that come their way, recognizing they are tailor-made specifically for them. This sounds counter-intuitive: are we not commanded to pray for relief from suffering? How can one feel positive about death, illness, or poverty?

Bitter Medicine

R' Nachman resolves this by pointing to the end of the verse: “I am Hashem.” This serves as a reminder that Hashem is all-merciful and compassionate, constantly blessing us with more than we deserve. Even our afflictions are ultimately for our good; they cleanse us from sin and provide deep spiritual atonement.

A Higher Purpose

To love these afflictions “as yourself” means to recognize that they are crafted to help your specific soul, even if the "why" remains hidden from us in this lifetime. It is a profound spiritual accomplishment to perceive affliction not as an enemy, but as a divine messenger meant to refine us.

May we be blessed to have our prayers accepted—not only in times of crisis, but also the prayers we offer "in advance." These preemptive prayers act as true neighbors, guarding us and helping us navigate the difficulties of life before they even arise.

The Great Game of Kashrut

I recently published a sefer called The Great Game of Kashrut, which uses cartoons to depict complex halachic cases in Yoreh Deah. Click the link below to see the latest animation!

Watch the Animation of Case 28 here!

Find out more at: greatgameofkashrut.com