Two students of Tam and Chacham were arguing about the true path to spirituality in the world. One student said that the path was built on effort and energy, “You must completely devote yourself with all your effort to follow the way of the Torah (Scriptures). To pray, to pay attention, and to live rightly”

The second student strongly disagreed. “It is not effort at all. That is only based on ego. It is pure surrender. To follow the way to do the will of the Holy One, blessed be He, to awaken is to let go of all things and live the teaching. One’s path should be not of religion, but a way of life.”

Since the students could not agree on who was right, they went to Tam and Chacham. They listened as the first student praised the path of wholehearted effort and when asked by this student, “Is this the true path?” Chacham answered, “You’re. right.” The second student was quite upset and responded powerfully that the path of living one’s faith is the natural way to realize spirituality. When he finished, he asked, “Is this not the true path?” and then Tam replied, “You’re right.” A third student who was sitting there observed, “But masters, they can’t both be right,” and Tam and Chacham smiled and said, “You’re right too!”

You see, there are different paths people follow. For the many, it may be one way for others another. We say, “And you shall love the L-rd your G-d with all your heart and all your soul and with all your might.” (Deuteronomy 6:5) at different times of the day, and the very words encompass all aspects of the community. Every person has different merits and resources and can find a path to serve the Holy One, blessed be He.

May all your tales end with Shalom (peace)

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Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation. (Joel 1:3)

Rachmiel Tobesman is a motivational speaker and Maggid (spiritual Storyteller). He is available for speaking engagements or storytelling, Click here to contact us

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