[Avodah] Mishpatim

[r via Avodah]

''If you lend money to any of your people, even to the poor with you…'' (Ex. 22:24)

Translating the verb in this passage as ‘lend' is, of course, correct. But one of our
great sages of near-modern times (Rabbi Jonathan) engages in an ingenious play
on words. He connects the verb ‘Talveh' with the verb meaning 'to escort'— as in
the word ‘levaya'for ‘funeral' — and thus translates the verse: 'If you think your
money will escort you at your departure from this world, think again. It is the poor 
whom you have helped who will accompany you.'

Rabbi Jose ben Kisma said this with clarity: 'In the hour of man’s departure, neither
silver nor gold nor precious stones no pearls accompany him, but only Torah and
good deeds.' (Avot 6:9).

I also remember hearing that when you go before the Almighty, you will not be asked
for your bankbook but you will be asked for your receipts.

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.
Mahatma Gandhi