“Many designs are in a man’s heart, but the counsel of God … only it will prevail” (Proverbs 19:21).
As we approach Z’man Toratainu and the nations march against us, I would like to share my favorite Shavuot Torah, which I heard in the name of the Ben Ish Chai.
In the third chapter of Megillat Ruth, Boaz awakens on the threshing floor to find a woman lying at his feet. In the darkness, Ruth explains her mission. Boaz replies, “There is a closer redeemer than I. Stay the night. In the morning, I will go to the city gate. If the closer redeemer will redeem you, well and good. But if not – Chai Hashem – I will redeem you!”
The Ben Ish Chai explains that the voice of Boaz is also the voice of God speaking to His precious children.
“Stay with me through the darkness of Exile. Don’t be afraid. In the morning, I will search for your redeemer, your own merits and good deeds. If they are sufficient to redeem you, well and good. But if not, do not fear. I will redeem you.”
Shavuot approaches and we must not be afraid. The Shield of Avraham protects us. Soon the darkness will end and the son of King David will arise to lead us in honor and dignity, triumph and glory to the Holy Land, to an eternal era of peace and tranquility in a world filled with the Light of Torah.