Power of Words

Rabbi Twerski chose to focus on the choice of words that Moshe Rabbeinu used, when making his final address to the people.

He was trying to show that there are times when harsh words are in order, while at other times, more gentle words are needed.

He was reprimanded by saying to the nation that left Egypt, שמעו נא המורים, “Listen, you rebellious one’s.” But before his death, when speaking to the generation entering Israel, it was not inappropriate to say, ממרים הייתם עם ה׳ מיום דעתי אתכם, “You have been rebellious towards Hashem, from the day that I have known you.”

We again learn the power of words, and how they must be used in a way, that it is clear what the speaker means.

Rabbi Twerski further spoke about how euphemisms can be very misleading. Clearly, abortion is forbidden by the Torah, but it is euphemistically referred to as, “women’s rights.” Or, euthanasia is referred to as, “mercy killing,” which is also misleading. Such euphemisms mislead the general public into coming to the wrong conclusions.

The successful euphemism of our neighbors, “the self determination of the Palestinian people,” evokes a sentiment that they are the mistreated underdogs.

We need to be careful how we use our words, and we must be equally careful not to allow ourselves to be swayed by those who have an agenda, and use their words to deceive.