Shaar HaBitachon- SoulWords Rabbi Shais Taub

In this first lesson, we begin to study the author's preface to his work and examine the definition of trust as well as the difference between trust and belief.







Among the points discussed is that by choosing to believe in a ‘caretaker’ other than G-d, we cause ourselves to feel like we are actually dependent on that thing instead of G-d. A parable of the Dubna Maggid helps us to understand the foolishness of this exchange.







(Author's Introduction)

G-d desires the natural order and for us to make "vessels" for His blessings to reach us. We discuss the mistake of relying on money for security. Money can be lost, spent on doctor bills, or even cause problems. Someone who trusts in G-d does not rely on wealth for peace of mind or security. He does his part to make vessels for G-d's blessings knowing that G-d will take care of him. 







(Author's Introduction)

In answer to a student's question, Rabbi Taub explains that whatever source one relies on for sustenance will appear to have that power even though the truth is that only G-d is in charge.







There are those that trust in other people, mistakenly believing that this will grant them security. Trusting in G-d means that we don’t need to rely on others. We are meant to love other people, not put our hope in them. By trusting only in G-d we are free to actually bond with people in a genuine way, without emotional manipulation, because we don’t rely on them or fear them.







(Author's Introduction)

Rabenu Bechaye uses the example of an alchemist to bring out the advantages of trust in G-d. What is an alchemist and why is this a useful example even in our times? We begin the list of ten advantages of bitachon over alchemy.







(Author's Introduction)

Continuing the list of ten advantages of bitachon over alchemy.







(Author's Introduction)

Someone who trusts in G-d is happy when he has money because he can give charity and happy when he doesn't have money because he doesn't have to worry about protecting his wealth. His sense of security doesn’t come from money and his identity is not based on having or not having it. He views money as something that is passing through his hands at the moment and he only needs to make sure it gets to the places it's meant to go.







(Author's Introduction)