Honesty In Business

The connection between Parshat Yitro and Parshat Mishpatim is that there is a focus on laws between man and man. There needs to be more emphasis in our studies, on the importance of honesty and integrity in money matters.

One of the definitions in the Talmud of Chillul Hashem, desecrating the Name of G-d, refers to one who is dishonest in money matters. It is worse when he gives the impression of being a pious Jew.

We must be mindful of the Mishna in Pirkei Avot that tells us to cherish other people’s money, just like we cherish our own.

It should be on our minds constantly that we be sure that every penny that we earn, was done honestly without deceit.

Similarly, the fear of Heaven should be with us at all times. If we remember that Hashem is watching all of our business dealings, we will be more careful to be sure that we are acting in the right way.

When we were ordained as rabbis in Chicago, we asked our saintly and elderly rabbi for advice that we could take with us throughout our lives. The rabbi said, “Don’t tell a lie, not even a white lie.”

At the time we were a little disappointed as we thought we might hear something more profound. But as the years went by, we appreciated the wisdom of our Rebbe.

It really is difficult to find people that never lie. Finding people who will be honest at all costs, is too much of a rarity.

Perhaps instead of trying to act “Frume,” religious, by being overly strict in Halachic matters, one should be overly strict in matters of integrity in money matters.