Prerequisite to Mussar

The Chazon Ish makes another interesting observation about the study of books of Mussar, discipline. While these books are excellent in helping refine a person’s character, they are not necessarily the “cure all” for everything.

Specifically, the Chazon Ish pointed out that it is the duty of every spiritual guide to know his students well. There could be students that are greatly lacking in refinement.

They may be very poor in personal hygiene and in basic social skills. They might speak with profanity, and they treat others in a very disrespectful and demeaning manner.

Such a student will not be able to relate to the teachings of the Mussar books. He is simply not ready to absorb these teachings. He is on too low a level to appreciate these teachings.

The solution to the problem is to raise this student’s spiritual level, by first teaching him Torah. The study of our traditional holy books such as Chumash, Mishna, and Gemara, will help bring about this refinement. He will see himself change as he learns from his rabbis how to talk to people in a respectful manner.

After he has done this for a while, he is ready to start looking at his character traits and what needs improvement. The Mussar books will now be able to further guide and elevate him.

This message of the Chazon Ish is an equally valuable lesson for both the student and the teacher. As it says in the Book of Mishlei, we must educate the youth according to their way.