A Word From The Rabbi
Dear Friend,
A young doctor was setting up his new office when his secretary told him a man was there to see him. Eager to make a good first impression, he picked up the phone and pretended to be having a conversation with a patient while the secretary showed the man in.
When then the doctor put the telephone down and asked, "How can I help you?" the man replied, "I'm just here to connect your telephone!"
We live in a primarily superficial world, where people are judged by externals. Whether it is the way we size up potential spouses, leaders, employees, employers, or even ourselves, society teaches us to place a premium on external presentation.
In this week’s Torah portion we are cautioned of the danger of following our eyes and heart. First external impressions are unreliable, often wrong, and should be ignored. As King Solomon wrote, “Charm is deceptive and beauty is naught; a G‑d fearing woman is the one to be praised.” We need to look past the charm and beauty and find the important inner qualities.
This is an especially meaningful lesson to all of us living in today's Hollywood society that worships the body, instant gratification, and all that’s external, instead of focusing on developing and appreciating the inner qualities that endure the test of time.
At Jewish weddings, just before the bride and groom walk to the chupah, the groom, escorted by his parents and community leaders, places a veil over the bride's face. By placing a veil over his bride's face, the groom is acknowledging that he is attracted not only to his wife's beauty, but to something deeper.
Physical beauty will fade with time, but inner qualities will always remain. It's up to us to make sure we value and develop those qualities.
Wishing you a successful week,
Rabbi Yudy Shemtov
Senior Rabbi/Executive Director