FROM THE TEACHINGS OF RABBI MILLER (Founder of "the Salant Foundation")

If you seek for her as silver, and search for her like hidden treasure; then you will understand the reverence of HaShem.

There are two factors that are relevant to the pursuit of money: 1) the effort exerted, and, 2) the desire to amass money. Concerning the effort, some people possess a powerful energy to work indefatigably to attain assets. Whereas, other people are naturally lazy, and this laziness even dampers their business exertions.

Similarly, there are different levels of intensity of desire for money amongst people. If a person has a burning ambition to become wealthy, his desire for money will drive him to pursue wealth incessantly, even if he is lazy by nature. If he is energetic, as well as, ambitious to be wealthy, then his passionate drive to pursue wealth will be unrelenting.

Correspondingly, these two traits parallel ones level of commitment to serve HaShem. As the verse in Mishlei states: If you seek for her as silver - meaning, if your desire to serve HaShem is as intense as one who desires wealth; and search for her like hidden treasure - and you actively serve Him with the tenacity of one who searches for buried treasure - then you will understand the fear of HaShem.

On the spiritual plane, people have varying levels of these two attributes. For instance, some people have a very low energy level of exertion, but on the other hand, they have a passion to attain a high spiritual level. Whereas others have an average energy level of exertion but they have no desire to elevate themselves, whatsoever.

One who posses a fervent desire to advance spiritually, has a precious virtue at his disposal. The hope and yearning inspires him - and ultimately - he will overcome all obstacles and reach a high level of devotion to HaShem. Thus, let us kindle a desire in our hearts to reach for the highest spiritual attainment - the exalted level of our Avos. This will empower us with the will to reach great heights of Torah and devotion. [Based on Cochvei Ohr, of Rav Yitzchak Blazer, article 32]

Implement: Imagine the devotion of Avraham; and then ask HaShem to purify your spirit as He purified the spirit of Avraham.

What is the first name of this Rabbi Miller?

[The picture of my "avatar" is of a Rabbi Avigdor Miller Zatzal.]

B"H

Reb Sam,

His name is Rabbi Zvi Miller.
He may be reached at e-mail: miler23@netvision.net.il

He has a regular column on Mussar, which I receive regularly in my e-mail. Anyone who wishes to prescribe to his letters should write him directly.

Sincerely,
David