אות - רטז

ON AVOIDING SPECULATION In his commentary on the Book of Proverbs, especially in Chapter 7:3, the Alshikh 321 Rabbi Moshe Alshikh of Safed (d. 1573), a member of the Ari's circle. writes at length about avoiding philosophical works. In a wonderfully clear manner, he explains how they fool the world. At first, they conceal their false beliefs and skepticism, displaying only the façade of sweetness of their evil ways. It is written, “The lips of a forbidden woman drip honey … but her end is as bitter as wormwood” (Proverbs 5:3-4) . Rashi comments that this “f forbidden woman” is atheism.

Many other lessons in the Book of Proverbs tell us to keep away from the “ forbidden woman.” This “ forbidden woman” is outside wisdom.

If you know the ways of the “enlighteners,” you know how they mislead people. Most of all, they mislead the young by teaching them their bitter ways. They are literally like the libertine woman. At first, she adorns herself and speaks sweetly, not revealing the evil in her heart. She pretends to be virtuous, not revealing her true nature until she snares her prey. This is also the evil way of these “enlighteners,” as is obvious to all who are familiar with them.

The major portion of the Book of Proverbs warns us of this. Whenever it speaks of the fool ( kesil or pesi ) who goes against the straight path (ibid., 2:13) , it is speaking against such perverted scholars. They are called fools and imbeciles. Therefore, it is written, “Have you seen a man who thinks himself wise? A fool has more hope than he” (ibid., 26:12) . Likewise, it is written, “Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes” (Isaiah 5:21) .

We cannot speak at length about this, since these “enlighteners” claim the exact opposite to be true. They try to prove their point from all the sacred works, particularly the Book of Proverbs.

For the Torah contains both life and death. It is written, “This is the Torah that Moses placed ( sam ) before the Children of Israel” (Deuteronomy 4:44) . The Hebrew word sam also means potion. The Talmud states that the Torah is a potion of life for those who are worthy, and a potion of death for the unworthy ( Yoma 72b) . It is also written, “God’s ways are straight; the righteous will walk in them, but sinners will stumble in them” (Hosea 14:10) .

If a person stubbornly wishes to follow an evil path, long discussions will not dissuade him. But if you desire the truth, our words will be sufficient to strengthen your resolve. You will be able to stand firm like a pillar of steel and break the jaws of unrighteousness (Job 29:17) .

May God reveal the truth soon. Amen, may this be His will.