Attach to Holiness

Shavua Tov. The Netivot Shalom speaks about selfishness, materialism, and arrogance, as three distinct negative traits, that create distance between the individual and Hashem. He also clarifies that there are two distinct forces in the world. There is the כח הקדושה, the force of holiness, that comes with cleaving to G-d, and the force of evil that attaches itself to the סיטרא אחרא, or, the Dark Side. These forces are not so apparent to the average individual, but they are there. When one gives in to his Yeitzer, and becomes selfish, materialistic, or arrogant, he attaches himself to these negative forces. This is why we say that evil people, even in their lifetime, are considered as if they are dead. They are no longer able to contribute anything positive to the world. We must place ourselves in the best possible position to grow in spirituality as we attach ourselves to righteous individuals and focus on doing Mitzvot and serving Hashem faithfully. We will then be protected by Hashem’s great love, that will bring us a great feeling of joy and contentment.