You shall not defile yourselves by any of these things, for the nations, whom I am sending away from before you, have defiled themselves with all these things. (Vayikra 18:24)
The Ohr Hachaim asks two questions:
The Ohr Hachaim answers that Hashem did not write “any ONE of these things” in order to teach us to equate each transgression as equally bad. Adding the word “ONE” would lead us to think that the transgression of the commandments may vary in severity. Although the punishments for certain sins are harsher than others, all transgressions are equal in the sense that they turn us away from God.
Furthermore, each transgression carries the potential to cause us to eventually transgress the entire Torah. This is why it is written “in every possible way” - we do not know which transgression will lead us completely off the path of Torah.
The Ohr Hachaim adds that just like we do not know the exact reward for each mitzvah so too we do not know the exact punishment for each transgression. Accordingly, a wicked person may be living a life of wealth and pleasure because he has done a mitzvah which brings him reward in this world and a transgression that can be punished fittingly only in world to come.
Concerning the mitzvot, it is well known, the Ohr Hachaim continues, that even though each mitzvah has its own segulah (blessings of a long life, prosperity, children, or health) we are not privileged to know the reward of each mitzvah. This is in order that each one should be equal in our eyes otherwise people will only do the mitzvahs that they think are best for them and neglect the others.
He concludes that every mitzvah has a part in bringing a tikun to ourselves and for Am Yisrael. With each mitzvah we do the Geula is hastened, and we must not underestimate the power of any single one. As Shlomo Hamelech said, “All that comes to your hand do with all your strength.” (Koheles 10:9).
“One good deed will bring another good deed, one transgression will bring another transgression” (mitzvah goreret mitzvah, averah goreret averah) expresses the belief that following one mitzvah leads to another. (Pirkei Avot 4:2.) There are several ways in which such an effect can take place. One can be as a result of inspiration, in which the act of a mitzvah is witnessed by others, who in turn, follow in their footsteps.
Another is by habit, in which a person becomes accustomed to performing a mitzvah regularly. No matter how big the task is or how much there is to overcome, Hashem will help us if we step up to the challenge. It takes just one step in the right direction to create the momentum!
Over the years people have asked me if I would ever draw cartoons depicting some of the cases found in Yora Daya. Well, the answer is yes! I recently published a sefer called The Great Game of Kashrut. Click on the link to find out more: The Great Game of Kashrut
If you would like to dedicate a Davar Torah in honor of a special occasion or in memory of a beloved family member please contact Yisroel Simon at yisroel@judaism613.com.
Good Shabbos,R’ Channenjudaism613.org