The Ohr HaChayim writes that Hashem's nature it to do good to others. More than there is a desire on the part of the recipient to receive His good, He desires to do good. Hashem has developed many machinations in order to bring about this good. He has also informed us that the benefits of serving Him out of love greatly outweigh service that is predicated upon fear. The only drawback to service out of love is that a person will not take heed not to slip up on occasion. He will reason that due to the close relationship he has with Hashem, Hashem won't care about it, as is the case among people who are close. This is why we find that Moshe erred with his speech before Hashem on a number of occasions. Because of the closeness he had, he became lax in his awe. Another person who did not feel as close would have been more careful how he spoke to Hashem as he would be terrified of doing something wrong. But that isn't Hashem's attitude. Rather, even with those who love Him he is exacting.
At the giving of the Torah Hashem saw two options before Him. One was to give it with words of love so that it would be accepted with love. As mentioned earlier the advantage is that serving out of love is much more beneficial, but it brings along a certain laxity. Alternatively, He could give it in an atmosphere of fear which would result in people taking greater heed not to sin, but would bring them few benefits.
He compromised by doing both.
At the giving of the Torah Hashem saw two options before Him. One was to give it with words of love so that it would be accepted with love. As mentioned earlier the advantage is that serving out of love is much more beneficial, but it brings along a certain laxity. Alternatively, He could give it in an atmosphere of fear which would result in people taking greater heed not to sin, but would bring them few benefits.
He compromised by doing both.
No comments:
Post a Comment