2:3:3
It follows then [1] that all of our successes and failures are meant to challenge us one way or another [2]. It’s just that G-d Himself sees to it that each challenge is to be the best one for the person experiencing it [3].
Footnotes:
[1] That is, based on the principle cited in 2:3:2 that all of our moral challenges play a role in the benefit or detriment of the universe, and are meted out to us with an end in mind, it follows that ….
[2] Elsewhere Ramchal reiterates that our successes as well as failures are challenges (Messilat Yesharim Ch. 1), he indicates that one’s successes are a often a consequence of his attaching onto G-d (Da’at Tevunot 40, 160) while his failures are often an outcome of his wrongful actions (2:3:4 below and Klach Pitchei Chochma 49), and he illustrates the factors that go into an individual’s successes and failures (Da’at Tevunot 170).
[3] Once again the point is that nothing is random — everything is purposeful, ultimately beneficial and for a particular end, which is the perfection of the universe.
(c) 2016 Rabbi Yaakov Feldman
Feel free to contact me at feldman@torah.org
———————————————————-
AT LONG LAST! Rabbi Feldman’s translation of Maimonides’ “Eight Chapters” is available here at a discount.
You can still purchase a copy of Rabbi Feldman’s translation of “The Gates of Repentance” here at a discount as well.
Rabbi Yaakov Feldman has also translated and commented upon “The Path of the Just” and “The Duties of the Heart” (Jason Aronson Publishers).
Rabbi Feldman also offers two free e-mail classes on www.torah.org entitled “Spiritual Excellence” and “Ramchal”.