If I Were a Rich Man

Although there is a disproportionate number of wealthy people vs. those in poverty, the world overall and the Jewish People in particular are in a better material state then we were a century or two ago.

Various religions have varying opinions on the virtue of wealth.

It seems at first glance from the Mishna in Pirkey Avos – Ethics of our Fathers, which we study these weeks between Passover and Shavous (1 chapter per week) that perhaps wealth is not such a virtuous pursuit. The Mishna 2:7 first states “one who increases meat (consumption) increases worms (in the grave)”. Essentially one who eats a lot is providing extra food for the worms in the grave.

Then the Mishna continues “one who increases possessions increases worry”. At first glance it seems like the Mishna doesn’t think this is such a virtuous endeavor.

However, like many other aspects of Judaism and as a fundamental perspective of life from a Chasidic perspective it’s all about the “why”. Why do you pursue material possessions, why do you pursue the consumption of meat?

If the intention is to serve G-d, for a higher purpose, to transform the world into a better place then it is purposeful and will keep one anchored.

Pencils of Promise is a book about a young man who gave up the pursuit of material possessions in the pursuit of finding meaning in his life, that ended with him developing schools for children in third world countries.

It doesn’t have to be an either or. One can have material wealth and not have the worries. It’s up to you!

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