Emuna and Bitachon

The Chazon Ish gives a very clear definition in making the distinction between Emuna and Bitachon. We loosely translate these words to mean, “faith” and “trust.”

The Emuna aspect of having faith in Hashem, falls under the realm of the theoretical.

This is relatively easy, as anyone can profess to be a believer that possesses deep faith in the Al-mighty.

The Bitachon aspect is what really separates “the men from the boys.” The challenge here is to put the Emuna into practice. If one can do this, he also possesses Bitachon.

The Chazon Ish proves this difference by giving an example of one who boasts of his undying Emuna. All of this changes when a competitor opens a business similar and adjacent to his.

Instead of trusting in Hashem that there is enough livelihood available to both, our Emuna man goes after his new challenger. He lies about him and acts deceitfully to prevent him from opening his business .

Our Emuna guy showed that his professed wasn’t worth that much, because it did not pass the test presented to him.

A person with Bitachon accepts that everything is in Hashem’s hands, and everything happens for the best. The Bitachon man accepts Hashem’s decisions whether they are to his liking or not.

This is a very clear definition in showing the difference between Emuna and Bitachon.