The First Ingrate

The biblical stories related to creation, carry with them important lessons in human nature.

The description of the creation of Eve was explained in the context of Adam’s loneliness. He was unable to find an עזר כנגדו, “a helpmate opposite him.”

Hashem, in His kindness, wanted to help him find peace of mind. Adam expressed his joy when he awoke to find to find his new bride. “This time,bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh, this one I shall call, אשה, woman.”

His gratitude was short lived. When he was asked by Hashem, why he hate the forbidden fruit, he blamed it on Eve. “That woman that You gave me, caused me to sin.”

This was the first instance when we were confronted with a כפוי טובה, an ingrate. Adam’s appreciation for his wonderful gift, was instantly forgotten. He initially did not accept responsibility for his actions, but looked for someone else to blame.

The Torah was teaching us a very real aspect of human nature. We suddenly forget or take for granted our precious gifts, and use them as objects of our wrath.

This is certainly true in marriages when it begins with so much love and hopes for the future. When things get difficult and life has its challenges, the marital bond gets weakened. The spouse becomes the object of blame, instead of working together to fix the problems.

If we got in the habit of thanking Hashem on a daily basis for His beautiful gifts, there would be more appreciation for these gifts, and we would not take them for granted.

Spouses and children are not meant to be “punching bags.” They are to be loved and cherished.

Adam made a terrible mistake by blaming Eve. He paid a heavy price for his ingratitude. “By the sweat of your brow shall you bring forth bread.”

Ingratitude is a terrible character flaw. It leads to many other negative traits, such as bitterness and anger. We must learn from Adam’s mistake to be appreciative for all that we have.