SUFFER FOR GOOD

Sha’ar HaBitachon - Episode Sixty-Seven , - ~ ! We've already resolved that from the standpoint of theological theory, exceptionally righteous people should be spared difficulties in obtaining their livelihood, yet acknowledged that, in fact, its not always the case. We asserted that this does not invalidate our faith-based conclusion because there are always other variables mixed into the equation, and the reasons remain varied and complex. As such, G-d's ways ultimately remain impossible for us to fathom. Notwithstanding, in this Episode, Rabbainu Bachaya will seek to provide some level of intellectual satisfaction to the age-old Faith Conundrum; Why in Heaven do Righteous People sometimes Suffer? Dipping into the deep inkwell of our inspired, sage tradition - the author introduces us to no less than five possible explanations that might be used to (at least theoretically) answer this burning question. These are, of course, not intended to (Heaven forfend) explain any specific person's suffering, but rather to provide an important and faith-infused, insightful context. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan