Whoever Possesses The Following Three Characteristics Is Of The Disciples Of Avraham Our Patriarch; And The Three Opposite Characteristics, Is Of The Disciples Of The Wicked Bilaam.

The Disciples Of Our Patriarch Avraham Possess A Good Eye, A Humble Spirit, And A Meek Soul. The Disciples Of The Wicked Bilaam Possess An Evil Eye, An Arrogant Spirit, And A Greedy Soul.

What Is The Difference Between The Disciples Of Avraham Our Patriarch And The Disciples Of The Wicked Bilaam? The Disciples Of Avraham Our Patriarch Enjoy [The Fruits Of Their Good Qualities] In This World And Inherit The World To Come, As It Is Stated: "To Cause Those Who Love Me To Inherit An Everlasting Possession [The World To Come], And I Will Fill Their Storehouses [In This World]."[69]

But The Disciples Of The Wicked Bilaam Inherit Gehinom And Descend Into The Nethermost Pit, As It Is Stated: "And You, O G-D, Will Bring Them Down To The Nethermost Pit; Bloodthirsty And Treacherous Men Shall Not Live Out Half Their Days, And I Will Trust In You."[70]

The Disciples Of Avraham Our Patriarch Enjoy [The Fruits Of Their Good Qualities]

Although the ultimate intent is that all positive personal qualities be expressed in one's conduct, the mishnah teaches us that, independent of a person's positive acts, he will receive reward for his positive character traits alone. Conversely, retribution is meted out for the possession of undesirable character traits, even when they are not expressed in actual conduct.

(Sichos Shabbos Parshas Chukas-Balak, 5746)

   

Notes:

69. (Back to text) Mishlei 83:21. Cf. Uktzin 3:12.

70. (Back to text) Tehillim 55:24.