Daf Yomi, Marriage Counseling, Psychotherapy, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Torah and Psychology
Our Gemara on Amud Aleph wrestles with the meaning and usage of the Hebrew word “al,” which roughly translates as “on” or “upon.” The question is: in Hebrew, does “al” imply being placed directly upon, or does it mean adjacent?
Tzidkas Hatzaddik (142) works off this interpretive implication and uses it to explain powerful concepts in redemption and repentance. The verse in Psalms (37:5) states:
“Place it (gal—roll) all upon God; be trusting; [God] will do it.”
Tzidkas Hatzaddik states that even though we have a principle that one may not rely on a miracle, that is only regarding physical, earthly matters. However, spiritual matters operate beyond logic, calculation, or any particular boundary. Therefore, when it comes to repentance, at the right moment—even if it makes no sense and even if a person doesn’t “deserve it”—he may succeed in being fully forgiven and returned to God.
There are two processes in repentance. A person undergoes a personal arousal to repent, and then God assists him. As it states, “Make an opening the size of a needle-point and I will create an opening the size that wagons can pass through” (Shir Hashirim Rabbah 5:2). Yet another kind of repentance may occur, where God takes you to a place that, according to the great amount of sin and corruption, you could never reach without a “miracle.” This form of reliance on miracles is absolutely permitted.
These two parts of repentance are represented in the two meanings of “al”—adjacent or upon. The verse in Psalms above states to “place and roll it upon God.” First, it is just to roll it near, like a heavy object you cannot lift.. Then God intervenes and takes it directly upon Himself.
Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation
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Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, LCSW-R, LMFT, DHL is a psychotherapist who works with high conflict couples and families. He can be reached via email at simchafeuerman@gmail.com