King Solomon says: “A person should learn so that he gains knowledge and ethics.” (Mishlei 1:2) The verse puts knowledge before ethics. Our Sages explain that this is because “If there is knowledge the ethics are meaningful, whilst if there is no knowledge the ethics are valueless.” The Chofetz Chaim (in his introduction to Mishna Berura Vol. 3) explains that “knowledge” refers to understanding of the law, while “ethics” refers to inspirational encouragement. If a person knows the law then the inspiring ethics he hears fall on receptive ears, and as a result of the encouragement he will gladly apply himself to keep the law properly and perfectly. However, if a person is ignorant of the law, nothing will help overcome his ignorance. He will inevitably do many things wrong even though he has been inspired to appreciate the great importance of the subject matter in general. About such an unfortunate situation the Kuzari writes, “Although you have good intentions your deeds are nevertheless incorrect.” (Kuzari, Chapter 1).
Congregation Toras Chaim is proud to begin a new daily email called “Attitudes and Laws Concerning Tznius of Conduct & Dress.” Tznius is often translated as modesty, but it means so much more. It really has to do with the sanctity and self esteem that comes from seeing oneself as created in the image of G-d, and what it means to uphold that personification in this world.
Once a day a short inspirational thought or relevant law (halacha) on tznius will be sent. This endeavor is designed for married men and women (married or not)–although anyone may register. We promise that this will be an eye opening study, will generate much discussion and provide a wonderful opportunity for growth. You may not personally be aligned with everything written here, and that’s okay. File it away for a time and place down the road.
If you have interest in Attitudes and Laws Concerning Tznius of Conduct & Dress, then please submit your name or a friend’s name to the list below. We will give everyone about a week to sign up before publishing the daily email, which will be based on the classic Modesty – An Adornment for Life by Rabbi Pesach Eliyahu Falk. You may forward this to anyone you like by simply clicking the envelope icon at the bottom of this post.
Rabbi, You hit a home run with the addition of the “Attitudes and Laws Concerning Tznius of Conduct & Dress.” In our world of gross immodesty, it’s just what we need. Thanks, Shalom Abrams
May our learning in Tznius of dress lead to even greater Tznius of SOUL.
bs’d
Thank you, Rabbi Rich. This is the most important thing for us to work on in this day and age,as our yetza harah is strongest in this area.
This subject is crucial in our world today and even more so in our community where it is easy to become confused. The lines for proper dress and behavior can easily become blurred without the right foundational education. Thank you.
Excellent!
I would be interested in learning more — thank you Rabbi!
Thank you for providing such easy access to knowledge and insight concerning Tznius of Conduct & Dress.
Looks like an interesting class – did I understand correctly – this class is also for adult single women? If so, I look forward to it.