The sculpture of pristine character is chiseled by the blade of integrity. Individuals who keep their word are a sturdy foundation upon which the edifice of any endeavor stands. In their presence we are instilled with an inner tranquillity that is the center of our ability to function. However, a breach in the dam of trust thrusts the waters of instability spiraling out of control.
One's word is sacred (im-plied in Rashi, Numbers 30:3). It is as solid as a rock. Therefore, one must adhere to it. This is a ubiquitous viewpoint among all ethicists.
The Torah takes the concept of one's word a step further. It impresses upon us that one's word actually metamorphoses into Jewish law. What one says transforms into a real obligation enforced by the law of God as is stated in this week's portion: "If a man vows a vow to the Lord, or swears an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth" (Numbers 20:3).
Furthermore, one's word can change the status of objects. For example, one who vows to become a Nazirite is prohibited to drink wine and all of its derivatives (Numbers 6:3-4). That means that wine that was kosher for this person before his vow has been transformed by his word into a nonkosher substance. The very essence of this item has been reconfigured on a spiritual level to become unfit for a Nazirite.
Not only is one's word real in the physical universe, but in the spiritual one as well. The famous Kabbalist Rabbi Chaim Vital (quoted in Sha'arei Aharon ad locum) informs us that every word that we say makes an impression in the spiritual realm.
One's word is of such import that it could be the difference between life and death as it says in Proverbs 18:21 - death and life are in the power of the tongue. Since such sway is imbedded in the spoken word, it is incumbent upon us to consider what we say before the words exit our mouths. As it says in the Ethics of Our Fathers (1:9), be careful with your words.
In addition, it is important not to speak too much. As it says, "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise" (Proverbs 10:19).
Rabbenu Yonah in his commentary (ad locum) explains that our thoughts are not always generated deliberately. Once these thoughts surface in our consciousness they have to be evaluated for their substance. Then, these thoughts can be discarded or kept accordingly. One who speaks profusely obviously states whatever comes to mind. This can cause infraction because not all that we think we should say. Therefore, one should exercise wisdom to restrain their lips until they become aware what effects their words will generate.
God weighs every word we say (Orchas Chaim Leharosh, No. 61) because those words are representative of what is inside of us (Rabbi Yerucham Levovits, ad locum).
Unfortunately, the media is inundated with delinquency in this area. Of course, there is no better story than the spectacular unraveling of the tower of trust.
Lately, there have been accusations and derisive judgments amongst the Jewish nation in the public eye. Since the spoken word wields an unpredictable power, such behavior can have drastic consequences.
We have such potential to show tolerance, understanding, unity and majestic character in the public arena. It would be so beautiful to seize that opportunity in these difficult times.
