Day 39: מַעֲמִידוֹ עַל הָאֱמֶת / Drawing another to truth
Truth bears a deep spiritual and intellectual legacy, entrancing mystics and philosophers alike. The Jewish wisdom and prophetic traditions preach Truth, and Kabbalah, Hassidut, and modern Jewish philosophy have continued that Truth infatuation.
When we are instructed to draw others to truth, should we assume that we have somehow ascertained some high form of Truth that we must now pass on?
I don't believe so. Each of us has our own Truth, although it may be buried or concealed. Proverbs famously instructs, "Teach a youth according to their own path" (Proverbs 22:6). The teacher's role is to help the student pine and uncover their inner Truth.
How do we know that each teacher must push each student on their own specialized path towards Truth? Because this entire project has followed that model, and trusted in the wisdom of our tradition to push us on our own path. A life of Torah, that is a life of growth and learning, does not have one obvious, shared destination. Our obligation to ourselves, with the support of our mentors, is to constantly strive for Truth.
Reflection:
Is there a point at which someone can say they have finally reached and understood the Truth?
How can it be that we all share the same Torah yet each have our own Truth?
Lived practice:
Trust your gut.
