Maghen Abraham - Thoughts From Mayer Sasson

"Let the Tribe of Levi come near…" (3,6)

 To flourish

 On this verse we learn in Vayikra Rabba, "This is what is written in the verse, "A righteous man will flourish like a date palm, like a cedar… he will grow tall." The question is to be asked – what is the connection between the verse in Tehilim and the words "Let the Tribe of Levi come near"?

It is said in the name of the Baal Shem Tov, founder of the Chasidic movement, that there are two types of righteous people in the world. There is the one who serves G-d totally but always keeps to himself and does not have his righteousness influence others. This type of righteous person is compared to a cedar tree that is a large, strong tree that does not bear fruit.

In contrast there is the righteous person who constantly works to bring others closer to their Father in Heaven. This person is compared to a date palm tree that is a tall impressive tree that gives fruit dates.

The verse in Tehilim is written regarding these people, "A righteous man will flourish like a date palm, like a cedar… he will grow tall." – the cedar is a large strong tree but does not bear fruit and that is "growing tall" - it prospers but people don't benefit from his fruits. In contrast, the date "flourishes" – its leaves produce sweet fruits that bring enjoyment to others.

The Baal Shem Tov concludes: Our Sages ob'm compared the Tribe of Levi to the date because the Levites were praiseworthy by not learning Torah and serving G-d only within their homes; they went out to teach the holy Torah to others and brought others closer to recognition of their Creator.

 SHABBAT SHALOM!!!