Parshat Re'eh - Perceptions
by Rabbi Lobel

“If there is a destitute individual among you, one of your brothers... do not harden your heart... Rather you shall open your hand to him.” (Deuteronomy 15:7-8) The Ohr Hachaim (1696-1743) comments that the Torah adds the words “one of your brothers” to teach us an important lesson - Do not think when you see a destitute individual he is any less of a brother. Being poor or stricken by hard times does not diminish an individual’s worth.

The Ibn Ezra (~1089-1164) explains “do not harden your heart” is not only in reference to ignoring the person in his time of need but also applies to softening our hearts and comforting those in need with warming and encouraging words.

The Torah recognizes that people often attribute their achievements and successes to their own abilities and, by the same logic, assume another person’s dire circumstances result from his own shortcomings.

The Medrash Shemot Rabba (21:4) says poor men are often ignored but the rich are usually respected. However, in the eyes of G-d, all are equal and are heard equally, as it says in Psalms (68:3) “Listener of Prayer, to You (G-d) all flesh comes.”

The Yefe Toar, commenting on the Medrash, explains that Psalm 102, “the prayer of a destitute man”, is not only referring to a person who is impoverished, but also a wealthy individual who lacks good deeds.

From G-d’s perspective, a man’s wealth is the sum of his good deeds. A person is measured by his character and his actions, particularly to those in need, not by his wallet. “Open your hand to him”, your brother, for his sake and yours.