Honor Your Father and Mother
Contemporary individualist culture would like to suggest that we “popped out of thin air” and owe nothing to anyone. Judaism tells a different story.
The Torah insists we see ourselves in a broader context. We are not isolated sparks of life but links in a great chain. One of the clearest expressions of this truth is the diber, “Honor your father and mother,” which reminds us that we didn’t get here alone—not physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
It is fascinating to note that Bar or Bat Mitzvah literally means “son or daughter of the commandments,” implying a level of parental status regarding Mitzvot. Like parents, they give birth to us. The inference is that the Mitzvot are not merely religious rituals; they are practices that shape our character and spirit as we build an exemplary society in the presence of God.
We now arrive at a very novel idea. Just like we honor our parents, we should honor the Mitzvot. We can do that by beautifying them—hidur mitzvah. Clean and polish the candlesticks for Shabbat. Give Tzeddaka with grace. Say a blessing slowly and with focus. And, of course, honor our parents with a smile on your face!
Each day this week, choose to honor a Mitzvah. Take your time to think about it before you do it, and then do it as beautifully as you can.
Set your intention for the day by reciting The Aseret Affirmation: Ten for Ten first thing in the morning.
Wishing you safety and strength,
Nitzan Bergman