Sunday, December 30, 2007

Berdichever Philosophy

From an article in Mishpacha Magazine by Rabbi Horowitz:

I do not profess to understand Hashem’s workings, but perhaps when the Jewish people are one day in need of forgiveness, the 2 of you and all others who unconditionally love and believe in their at-risk sons and daughters will become Klal Yisroel’s Reb Levi Yitzchok Bardichiver and advocate for all of Hashem’s children.

This is a beautiful thought. The Jewish people need zechusim(merits), and the above scenario may very well play a role in hashgacha(Divine providence).

I also remember reading a story regarding a Chasidic rabbi(I forget which) whose followers wanted him to drive away his wayward child. The rebbe refused to do so, and responded that his actions prevented heavenly accusations against his own followers, who deserved to be "driven away" as well, according to strict heavenly justice.

Similarly, Rachel's seeing to it that Leah would not be embarrassed and her allowing a competitor to remain in the same home, enabled her to be an advocate for the Jewish people many years down the line, when during the reign of Menashe, there was the sin of idolatry, specifically, bringing an image into the Beis Hamikdash(Rashi to Yirmeyah 31:14, mentioned in above article).

Of course, there is a time when it is best for all concerned for a child to move out of the house, but when the issue is simply one of "what will the neighbors say", then the above thought would be appropriate.