On Righteousness: The Portion Vayeira

in the fourth verse of genesis chapter nineteen we are told that the entire populace, both young and old, sought to commit immoral acts upon strangers who had been taken in by abraham’s nephew, lot. “when they had not yet retired, and the people of the city, the people of sodom, surrounded the house, both young and old, the entire populace from every end [of the city].” rashi’s commentary states that there were no righteous sodomites.

prior to this event, a debate between abraham and the master of the universe. abraham implored the master of the universe to not destroy sodom and gemorrah for the sake of the city’s righteous.

we must ask, why should a city by saved due to the existence of righteousness? what is righteousness’ impact the world? how can a small amount of righteousness matter?

righteousness can be reduced to the notion of “moral intention”. hirsh, right and righteousness. “moral intention” implies that individuals assess their actions within a prism as to their impact on both themselves and the world. a person taking illicit drugs may not only be make themselves sick but, in doing so, may deprive their family money for food and other necessities. righteousness, over time, has been expanded out and incorporated to include other items such as acts of charity.

acting with “moral intention” is not innate. acting with “moral intention” requires much knowledge and wisdom. this is achieved by studying of social interactions as well as much instruction and education.

fire brings with it a popular notion. flames can be shared. light can be multiplied without diminishment. righteousness or acting with moral intention can be can be shared without diminishment. in doing so, a single flame can spark many to act ith moral intention. a single righteous individual has the potential to reset the world..

in these most trying of times, we must hold firm to our “moral intention” and share it with others. perhaps it is not too late to right the ship in a time when it appears that individuals do not know their right hand from their left. hopefully, this concept is more than a “big” fish tale.

be well!!