Students of Avraham and Bilaam

The Mishna in Pirkei Avot makes a comparison between the students of Avraham Avinu and those of Bilaam.

The students of Avraham stand out by עין טובה, רוח טובה, ונפש רחבה, a good eye, meaning a positive perspective, a good spirit, meaning being optimistic, and a wide soul, meaning a generous spirit. The opposite was true regarding the students of Bilaam.

Rabbi Twerski sees a very deep message here. It may have been true that had one met Avraham or Bilaam, these two individuals may have had the appearance of being important and impressive.

However, looks can be deceiving. The real test as to whom these people are, is reflected by their students. If their disciples are fine, upstanding, G-d fearing individuals, they are a reflection of their leader. Similarly, if they lack manners and decency and show bad character, it is proof that their mentor is only special in his appearance only.

Bilaam spoke as if he was very pious by repeatedly saying that he will act only according to what Hashem tells him. But if you look at those who identify with him, you can understand who Bilaam really is.

The students of Avraham Avinu continue to shine with their exemplary Midot and devotion to Torah and Chessed. We must remind ourselves that, “looks can be deceiving.”