When Words Fail

Based on Rebbe Nachman’s Wisdom #232

“The Israelites didn’t listen to me—how will Pharaoh? And my lips are sealed” (Exodus 6:12; see Rashi).

Even Moshe Rabbeinu, who knew how to daven (pray) very well—as evidenced by the results of his prayers following the sin of the Golden Calf and the sin of Miriam—felt that he lacked the words to overcome Pharaoh. He felt this way despite the fact that it was God Himself Who was sending him to speak! The lack of immediate success in liberating the Israelites, along with the worsening of their condition, discouraged him deeply.

Sometimes, you and I might also feel the same way. The “Pharaoh” of food, money, or some other “Pharaoh” doesn’t allow the “Israelite” within you to go free so fast. In fact, despite your hitbodedut (speaking to God in your own words), it may feel as though your spiritual feelings and progress are actually moving backwards. So even though you have something meaningful and convincing to say—something that could actually free you from your bondage—you feel too discouraged to say it. You find yourself trapped at the gates of your lips.

Rebbe Nachman compares this to a warrior, armed to the hilt, who arrives at the gates and, seeing them covered with spiderwebs, turns back from his mission. How silly, says the Rebbe! Because of a minor setback and a lack of a bit of courage, should you give up the mission you set out on – one for which you are so thoroughly equipped?! Absolutely not!

God sent Aharon to assist Moshe Rabbeinu. We also have tzaddikim, their writings and other good teachers who can—and will—accompany us on our mission to overcome Pharaoh. Let us not be bashful about asking God to help us find them, and about asking them to teach us what to say and to daven on our behalf.

agutn Shabbos
Shabbat Shalom!

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