Devar/5768/Matot
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< Devar | 5768
עברית
English
When a man voweth a vow unto the LORD, or sweareth an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth. (Num 30:11)
The Torah requires that we honor our words regarding vows. That is to say, that we shouldn't vow and afterwards say "that's not what I meant", or "I was only kidding". Rather, when we say something we should stand by our words and fulfill our vows.
Even though this mitsvah only specifically pertains to vows, our Sages commanded that a person should be honest and straightforward: It is prohibited for a person to engage in smooth-talking or suggestive language. And he should not have one thing in his mouth, but another in his heart -- rather his inside and outside should be the same; and that matter which is in his heart should be the one in his mouth. (Laws of Personality Development 2:11). And this is simple and understood -- since it is impossible to establish a properly functioning society where there is no honesty. And further: It is forbidden to mislead others, even Gentiles. (ibid.)
Because, it is impossible to rely upon the person who tells lies and deceptions, nor to establish a proper society with such people. The Torah desires a proper society, in which one may rely upon his fellow, and each one helps the other. And the foundation of a properly functioning society is honesty and truthfulness -- between man and his fellow, as well as between man and his Creator. Therefore the Torah commands us regarding vows that a person be straight and speak the truth with his God, since if he abides his word when he could deny it and no one be the wiser, he will be liable to behave similarly with others.
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