“Hakarat Hatov” and Entitlement

Parshat Va’era gives a description of the first seven of the Ten Plagues. There is a subtle but important message within this description.

We learn the concept of “Hakarot Hatov.” This refers to the obligation to recognize the good that was done to us. We must never forget to appreciate an act of kindness that was done for us by another individual.

The Parsha taught this concept even in connection with inanimate objects. Moshe was saved as a baby when placed in a basket in the Nile. He was not allowed to smite the Nile during the plague of “blood.” He was not allowed to smite the sand that brought the lice, for the sand helped him hide the Egyptian that he killed.

This is a clear warning that “entitlement” or מגיע לי, “I have it coming to me,” is a very incorrect way of viewing the world. Nobody owes us anything.

The Orchot Tzaddikim even mentions that a gift received from parents or relatives, is really a gift from Hashem. These relatives are acting as messengers of G-d.

We must appreciate everything we have and not take anything for granted. “Hakarot Hatov” is an attribute that we all need to acquire. It will help us view the world in a better light, and it will help give us much more joy and peace of mind.