Truth and Peace

The comment made by Rav Kook regarding Megillat Esther has great significance. He pointed out that the description of the Megilla, as containing דברי שלום ואמת, “words of peace and truth, was a hint that this book had special Torah like significance.

The Torah can also be described as דברי שלום ואמת, words of peace and truth. One who lives according to its dictates and laws, is able to connect to the ultimate truth, which certainly brings a sense of peacefulness to those that follow it.

There is a very practical lesson to be learned from this. We must use this motto of “truth and peace,” in all of our interpersonal relationships. We must not be afraid to identify each person’s strong and weak points, with whom we come in contact. This is especially true with family members.

We will have healthier relationships if we are able to accept our relatives despite their faults, rather than pretend they are not there. It is not being truthful, to condone bad behavior.

There are times that we must also accept that these flaws might be so great, that we have no choice but to distance ourselves from such people.

If we are unable to admit the truth, and accept things as they are, we might suffer as King Shaul did.

Because he showed undeserved compassion to the evil Amalekite King Agag, he showed cruelty by having the Kohanim of Nov put to death. When we are merciful to our enemies, we will be cruel to our friends.

All of this can be avoided, when we are seekers of אמת ושלום, truth and peace. We will find great peace of mind and happiness, if we are able to do this.