Protect Your Surroundings

In Pirkei Avot it is written that we are to distance ourselves from a bad neighbor, and we must befriend an evil person.

Yakov Avinu diplomatically insisted on separating from Eisav.

He understood that being in close proximity to his evil brother, would create terrible negative influences to his family. He made certain that Eisav went his way to the souther part of Israel. The mountains near Eilat are known as the Edomite Mountains. They were red in color, just like Eisav, who was also know as Edom, because of his red complexion.

This warning to distance ourselves from evil people is one that should not be taken lightly. We are all influenced by our surroundings, and the people with whom we are in contact.

This is especially true for children, who are very impressionable. There are so many enticements that are capable of leading them astray.

We must put them in the best environment possible, where they would be able to thrive. Yakov understood this very clearly in his dealings with his brother. We must follow his example and stay away from individuals, and even certain locations that do not live according to Torah values.

We must not be foolish and think that it won’t happen to us. Everyone is affected by their environment, and it is our duty to live in the best place for spiritual success.