3:11 “Anyone whose
fear of sin takes priority over his wisdom” – “Fear of sin” represents the
commitment to a moral life; any wisdom we subsequently acquire serves to reinforce
and enhance that commitment. Our increased wisdom helps us
avoid sin more effectively, bringing joy and fulfillment – and a craving for ever
more wisdom. If, on the other hand, we pursue wisdom without the prior
commitment to avoid sin, we will find our knowledge to be a burden, imposing
restrictions that limit our pursuit of self-gratification. We will ultimately
abandon wisdom and its demands for moral restraint.
[Rabbeinu Yonah] |
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