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Unnecessary Evil

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There are times when a stern word is necessary, when a child needs a firm reminder, when social justice demands harsh measures.

Of their own, these acts are unwholesome -- only their context redeems them. Think of them as toxic medicines, to be administered with great care. Because once they are no longer necessary or replaceable by healthier means, they are no longer medicine, but poison.

Based on letters and talks of the Rebbe, Rabbi M. M. Schneerson
From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory; words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. To order Rabbi Freeman’s book, Bringing Heaven Down to Earth, click here.
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Discussion (3)
July 6, 2009
Your words for today July 6th, 2009...
I just want to say that your words are so wonderfully placed together and today's words REALLY impacted me and I'm sure others. Baruch Hashem and Baruch Tzvi Freeman...
Anonymous
yacolt, wa
July 6, 2009
I believe this to be 100% true. However, when expanding this idea to the realm of how one may feel that G-d at times also deals with us in such a matter, how does one cope with all the "stern words" that feel as if they have now become one of poison and rejection?
Anonymous
North hollywood, Ca
July 6, 2009
Necessary sin
There are necessary sin and unnecessary, Father Abraham lied that his wife was his sister it was necessary. David also tricked the Philistines and pretended to be crazy, that too was a necessary sin. You should read between the line before you engage.
prophet-key
Tanger, maroc
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