Rabbeinu Bechaye, in his introduction to this parasha, discusses the effects of laziness. He explains that one can be lazy in the upkeep of his house. If the homeowner chooses to perform normal maintenance and make minor repairs to his roof in a timely fashion, he can fix it relatively easily and inexpensively. If, on the other hand, he chooses to delay and wait, the situation will usually deteriorate into a much more costly and destructive situation. Similarly, Rabbeinu Bechaye continues, one can be lazy with the upkeep of his soul. If one chooses to put in the effort to improve his middos, he will eventually reach his goal. If, on the other hand, one allows his desires to continue on its normal path, this will eventually lead to the destruction of his body and soul. Just as an untended field grows wild thorns and weeds, so too the untended soul will grow unwanted and negative character traits (see Mishlei 24:30-33).
Menu