Jul 12·edited Jul 12Liked by Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss
I'll toss into the mix the following thought of Rambam's (MN 3:40): "A person who killed another person unknowingly must go into exile (Exod. 12:13: Num. 35:11-28); because the anger of "the avenger of the blood" (Num. 35:19) cools down while the cause of the mischief is out of sight. The chance of returning from the exile depends on the death of [the high-priest], the most honoured of men, and the friend of all Israel. By his death the relative of the slain person becomes reconciled (ibid. ver. 25); for it is a natural phenomenon that we find consolation in our misfortune when the same misfortune or a greater one has befallen another person. Amongst us no death causes more grief than that of the high-priest." According to this it is the grief engendered by a great person's death itself that is the catalyst for people to let go of their own personal grievances.
I'll toss into the mix the following thought of Rambam's (MN 3:40): "A person who killed another person unknowingly must go into exile (Exod. 12:13: Num. 35:11-28); because the anger of "the avenger of the blood" (Num. 35:19) cools down while the cause of the mischief is out of sight. The chance of returning from the exile depends on the death of [the high-priest], the most honoured of men, and the friend of all Israel. By his death the relative of the slain person becomes reconciled (ibid. ver. 25); for it is a natural phenomenon that we find consolation in our misfortune when the same misfortune or a greater one has befallen another person. Amongst us no death causes more grief than that of the high-priest." According to this it is the grief engendered by a great person's death itself that is the catalyst for people to let go of their own personal grievances.
Great connection! Thanks!
Really nice distinction between the two types of ways we can relate to the righteousness of tzadikim upon their deaths (and lifetimes, of course).
Reminds me a little of Avraham ben HaRambam's 2 paths, even though it's not quite the same.
Good call!