BackThe Power of Words
By: Rabbi Dr. Abraham Unger
We are living in a time when we are inundated with words daily. Short clips of phrases bombard us on social media, in popular culture, and in numerous small daily interactions. The Torah recognizes not just the strength of lengthy narratives, but also the impact of succinct clauses that may stick in our minds.
In this week’s parsha, we are warned of the power of words. Laws of vows and oaths are given. The classic yeshiva introduction to the tractates dealing with these Halakhot, laws, is to remember that a human being is a “Medaber,” a speaking creature. A short promise you may utter, such as a vow asserting you won’t do something normally permitted, is significant. Don’t neglect the seemingly quick utterances you make throughout the day; they have weight, and cumulatively, speak to our characters.
Remembering that each of us is a “Medaber,” infused with the talent of communication, recalls our own humanity. Being a speaking creature is not just about big presentations or grant oratory. Our natures are revealed in the multiple verbal moments we take part in daily. The Torah teaches us to be mindful of those passing conversations. Words matter.