Man’s Potential

The creation of man was different from all other creations. In this instance, the Torah says, “Let us make man.”

By all of the other creations, there is simply a command. “Let there be light.” Or, “Let the waters gather.” Or, “Let the earth bring forth its seed.”

This particular wording regarding the creation of man was an invitation for him to be a partner in creation. He was created בצלם אלוקים, in the spirit of G-d. This meant that there was a Divine aspect to his being.

Rav Asher Weiss pointed out a distinct difference between man and the rest of the world. The angels only had a Yeitzer Hatov, the good inclination. It was not possible for them to do anything wrong.

The animals only had a Yeitzer Hara, the evil inclination. This is what allows them to kill their prey without any consideration. It is only man that has both the Yeitzer Hatov and the Yeitzer Hara.

This leaves man in a constant state of struggle. He needs to gain the tools to overcome the temptations of the Yeitzer Hara.

This is why it is possible for man to sink below the level of animals if the wrong choices are made. Animals have a built in mechanism of self preservation. Man is capable of self destruction.

On the other hand, if man makes the right choices and works on himself, he is capable of reaching the level of the angels. He is no longer brought down by the Yeitzer Hara.

It is important that man realizes his limitless potential. The Torah itself points out the various choices available to man. The recommendation is ובחרת בחיים, that we are to choose life.