The Sicknesses of Egypt

After the Jewish people crossed the Red Sea, Moshe Rabbeinu made a promise to the Jewish people. It is a simple formula that if followed, will bring good health and peace of mind.

He simply told them that if they shall surely listen to the voice of G-d, and you shall act in a manner that will be pleasing to Him, and you will listen to the Mitzvot, and observe the commandments that have no apparent reason, all of the sicknesses that were placed in Egypt, will not be placed on you. It ends with the words, that Hashem is the true healer.

When Moshe spoke of the “sicknesses of Egypt,” he was not only referring to physical ailments. He was also speaking of the social ills that plagued Egypt. It was a place of immorality and decadence, like nowhere else in the world.

If we want to be immune from the meaningless pursuits of others towards materialism and self gratification; If we want to protect ourselves of the contagious nonsense of values based on “feeling good,” and doing whatever “makes you happy; then follow the path of holiness.

Do what is upright and pleasing in the eyes of Hashem. Diligently follow all of His commandments. Develop a closeness with Him and recognize that we are meant to be His faithful servants.

If we can do this, we will not fall in the way of the Egyptians. Our lives will be meaningful and we will have a healthy perspective on life. We will have peace of mind and contentment that cannot be attained by any other pursuit in this world.