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Home
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An Appreciation of Igeress HaRamban
by Tovoh Younger
Today we live in such a competitive society, where everyone
seems to have their abilities and 'assets' on display. We
don't have to go into your home; we just get the address, and
we know your status. Or we pass by and see the lawn, and
other trimmings that give us a clear indication of what is
inside. Maybe we see you drive by, and that vehicle of yours
tips us off.
Everyone's standard of living seems to be in everyone else's
face. How can we get a handle on feelings of jealousy that
can be aroused? We learn that jealousy and desire can drive a
person out of this world! Equally importantly, how can we
deal with our feelings of superiority, which can lead us to
feeling proud? Concerning a baal gaivah, Hashem says,
'He and I cannot live in this world together.' It seems like
no matter what our status is, we have what to work on.
Enter Igeress haRamban.
As you go through it, you will learn just what it takes to
work on ridding yourself of these forbidden and destructive
feelings. 'Remove anger from your heart,' 'From where did you
come . . . and before Whom are you destined to give an
accounting?' 'Since everyone is equal before Hashem, Who,
when angry, cuts down the arrogant . . . therefore lower
yourself and Hashem will uplift you,' 'With all your words,
actions and thoughts and at all times, think in your heart
that you are standing before Hashem.'
All this and more is contained in this page-long letter. And
at the end we are told, 'Every day that you read this
(Igeress haRamban), you will be answered from Heaven
with whatever you decide to request.' May we only be worthy
of properly reading and following it's ideals!
Initially, I tried to read this on a weekly basis as
recommended, and I was able to get some direction from it.
Then I had an inspired thought — I decided to work on
memorizing it. In the process I was forced to give more
thought and concentration on the actual phrasing of the
words, and the order in which it is all set out. It has
greatly enhanced my working on the lofty goals set forth. I
work on it a few sentences a week, and in the past two
months, have gotten toward the end. As I reach my goal, I can
review the Letter as I take a walk, or have to hold the phone
and be subjected to some undesirable music. It's great for
chasing away destructive thoughts as well. Basically, it
gives me something positive to think about whenever I want
to.
It can also come in handy when you need a good quote. The
other day I bought a siddur for my grandchildren, and
I wanted to write a meaningful inscription. I was at a loss
for words, until the Ramban rescued me. 'Concentrate on your
prayers by removing all worldly thoughts . . . prepare your
heart . . . purify your thoughts . . . and your prayer will
be pure, clear, clean, devout and acceptable . . . ' Amen!
While reciting it, I include the prayer that my heart be rid
of the bad traits he describes, and that I become worthy of
that awesome blessing, ' . . . and Hashem will uplift
you.'
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