As a summation to various rules that were just mentioned, Moshe says: 12:28:
“
Ki Taaseh Hatov V’Hayashar b’eynei Hashem.”-
“When you do what is good and right
in the eyes of Hashem your G-d.”
Noting
the dual terminology of Tov and Yashar, Rashi quotes the opinion of Rabbi Akiva
in the Midrash:
“Hatov-
beinay Shamayim. V’hayashar- Beinay Adam.”
In
our lives we must be cognizant of two barometers on which we must test our
actions: One of those barometers is expected to be stated in the Torah: how
does it look in the eyes of G-d? What is more surprising is that Rabbi Akiva
suggests that we concern ourselves with how our actions our perceived by
others. This may lead to some very valid questions. Such as does this statement
of Rabbi Akiva recognize the possibility that what is right according to G-d
may not be in consonance with popular culture or conventional wisdom? And in
such a scenario, which value wins out?
As
we strive to do what the Torah demands of us, we must strive to do so in a
manner that is Yashar b’einay Adam, pleasing and attractive and inspiring to
those who are watching us. It may not always be possible, but it is a value
that we must always consider.
And
we must be harder on ourselves than we are on others. When considering what is
Tov B’einay Hashem we must factor in how this will be perceived by others. But
such is not the case when dealing with ourselves. Even if we take seriously
other people’s perspectives we must always remember that our eyes may be
deceived. It is possible for self-interests to lead us to self-righteousness.
If there is tension between what is Tov B’einey Hashem and Yashar B’eineinu,
when we are confronted with the possibility that our actions or values may not
be consistent with what the Torah expects of us, then we must be willing to
think deeply and seriously and consider reevaluating our position. Perhaps this
is why the last time “yashar” is mentioned in our Parsha (13:9), Moshe charges
us to do simply do that which is Yashar B’einay Hashem. For our actions must be
in consonance with the objective values and morals that the Torah has taught us
are the correct way to live.
When
it comes to doing what is Yashar, I wish it was as easy as the Israeli direction-giver’s
advice- Yashar Yashar Yashar ad Hasof. But seeking spiritual direction is not
that easy.
Our
Pasuk in Re’eh exhorts us to do the Tov and Yashar. A couple weeks ago in
Vaetchanan we were told to do Hayashar V’Hatov. And in that context Ramban points
out what that the Torah can’t give us exact directions for every situation in
life. We have to think seriously and do our best and pray that by going yashar
Hashem will help us reach our sought-after destination.