Debunking Viral Claim About the Talmud and Minors
3 min read
Just as every structure has its foundation, beliefs support and spiritually anchor our lives. Beliefs help us interpret everyday reality and make sense of the world. Our belief systems help us clarify what’s right, wrong, true, or false. Beliefs influence our standards of behavior and define who we are. What can happen if one’s belief system suddenly collapses? People can be figuratively plunged into a mental state of darkness and despair.
The Torah describes an intense darkness that engulfed Egypt. “A man did not see his fellow, nor did anyone get up from his place for three days.” Rashi comments that “there was a darkness of gloom when no man saw another during those three days, and there was, moreover, another period of three days of darkness twice as thick as this, when no man rose from his place.”
The plagues were the manifestation of God’s Presence and might. The pagan Egyptians were catapulted into an existential crisis. Everything in which they believed collapsed before them. Frozen in place, as if imprisoned by an inescapable gloom, the darkness of despondency became palpable.
The experience of clinical depression can feel as if one is subsumed— plagued—by hopelessness and social isolation. The psychological anguish of depression places one in a type of solitary and “soulitary” confinement. Whereas physical darkness is outside us, depression comes from within. Depressed individuals don’t want to get out of bed because they feel hopeless. There’s no reason to rise. This loss of hope can prevent people from trying to improve their reality. They can become mentally and physically catatonic.
Regarding the plague of darkness, the Torah states that “no one could raise himself up.” Many of us have experienced low points. The darkness of mental suffering is a comprehensive affliction of both body and soul. The Chiddushei Harim states that “there is no greater darkness than one in which ‘a man did not see his fellow,’ in which a person becomes oblivious to the needs of others.” When that happens, a person becomes stymied in their personal development as well.
What can we take away from darkness? Acknowledging another’s struggle may help decrease it. It sends a message that “you matter.” Asking someone if he or she is OK, and expressing concern, signals that somebody cares.
If you are suffering, let someone you trust know. Verbalizing your inner burden can help alleviate it, at least to some degree. Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi stated that “one small light can push away a whole lot of darkness.”
We are so busy living our lives that it’s easy not to notice when someone else is in a low place. Be a light for someone else—whether it’s a child, or anyone experiencing confusion, pain, or loss. Lighting another’s candle doesn’t diminish your flame.
The perpetual light and wisdom of our Torah can illuminate the soul and mind. They can penetrate the darkness, but only if we perceive it. Each of us can be a lamplighter. Ignite your inner light from the everlasting flame of the Torah. Then, light someone else’s.
We all experience times of darkness. Strive to grow through them, not merely go through them.
Try to be more mindful of the ongoing struggles of those around you.
Find a trusted confidante with whom to share your thoughts and inner feelings.
