A person is happy when he knows something worthwhile belongs to him.
A person is very happy when he feels he is small and yet he owns something very great.
We are all finite owners of the Infinite.
From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory; words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. Subscribe and get your dose daily. To order Rabbi Freeman’s latest book, Wisdom to Heal the Earth, click here.
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David Harold Chester
Petach Tikva, Israel
February 15, 2021
There is no such thing as infinity, at least not so far as we can understand it or even own a part of it. To generate infinity we would need to divide a finite quantity by nothing and this is not possible. If our conception of G-d is of an infinite being, then this leaves no room for anything or anybody else.
And surely happiness is caused not by the ownership of goods or property but only when we have become aware of our good deeds have been of benefit and use to somebody else.
Reply
Eleanor Skibo
Pennsylvania, USA
August 11, 2018
Measuring happiness in today’s world isn’t a very easy feat to accomplish. Materialism seems to put a strangle hold on most everyone. We think we’ll be happy if we live in the best neighborhood in one of the most attractive homes with a swimming pool in the back yard, two expensive automobiles in the garage and a membership to one of the top country clubs in the area. Or maybe we’ve set our eyes upon a job at that Fortune 500 company. But will all of these worthwhile items truly make us happy, sometimes the true path to happiness comes from the least expected places. A simple but an important thing can sometimes bring us the most happiness, and that thing is right inside of us. Giving love and receiving love seems so easy, but yet most of us have the most trouble with obtaining these two things. Loving our creator, G d, and opening up our hearts to his love can seem simple and small, but actually it can grow into one of largest obtainments we can ever obtain. Reply
Rita Forbes
MD
August 10, 2018
Mr. Brown,
Your response caused me to rethink my euphoric moment of discovery of being in partnership with the infinite. Our mortality makes us temporary responsible stewards that are accountable overseers of HaShem's creation. In this perspective, we are a part of HaShem's majestic and magnificent plan for His creation.This is contingent upon following his directives. As we receive showers of God's blessings, based upon His promises, we give to others and we are filled with the joy and the Light of his Countenance.
Numbers 6:24-27
I am still joyfully amazed and empowered!
Reply
Jeff Shapiro
Bala Pa
August 2, 2018
The thought first occurrs with this very good piece, and now that I have it, I find that it’s true for others that I have read in this series, and expect to continue it to be true. Rabbi Freeman, your way of presenting the Rebbe’s thoughts are very helpful , and I appreciate the regular work you put into it. And, I’d also like to see a “straight translation “. Reply
Adele Mischel
Boston
August 2, 2018
How beautiful these words ! Imagine waking up each morning believing this and going through our day. Thank you Rabbi Tzvi.
Reply
Henry Brown
Boynton Beach
August 2, 2018
We are our brothers' keepers and part of the infinite.
I disagree with the limitation of being "finite owners of the Infinite"
We are integral parts of an infinite non-differentiated unity.
Blessings to you all.
Chanoch
Reply
Rita Forbes
MD
August 10, 2018
in response to Henry Brown:
Mr. Brown,
Clarification: I responded to your pensive comment from the angle that we are temporary owners because of our mortality. But when Mosiach comes, our mortality will be clothed in immortality and the finite will become like the Infinite and we will become eternal owners. Therefore, our temporary ownership in partnership with HaShem is but for a moment. Thank you.
Blessings -
Reply
Rita Forbes
MD
August 2, 2018
"We are all finite owners of the infinite!"
Superb Analogy!
I am empowered!
Reply
zak
San Diego
May 3, 2015
what is size but freedom Your thought can be big and small, for all creation can fit into what that has been given. Reply
Alex Ross
Avon Park, Florida
November 8, 2010
On Happiness Rabbi Freeman, I must tell you this comment is very profound. It is an eye opener. I can read into it what the Rebbe is trying to tell us. My daily dose is very important to me. It gives me the insight to live my day as best a Jew as I can be. We know all people can not be the same. But if we try our best G-d will be pleased. Reply
H Gilliland
Newtownards, U.K.
November 8, 2010
Happiness This statement is so simple yet so profound. It has given my spirit a tremendous boost. Reply
Anonymous
portsmouth, ohio
November 8, 2010
"rent to own" a person is happy when he understands he belongs; that life is worthwhile; and that we are renters of the finite, doing maintanence for the Infinite. Reply
Bracha
Cincinnati, OH
June 26, 2009
I agree I went to the Mikvah last week and completed my conversion to Judaism. I have never been happier. Your statement "A person is happy when he knows something worthwhile belongs to him." Is very true for me in this case. Reply
Tova
September 11, 2007
On Happimess I agree with that and think it's true Reply
Yes, even a small treasure in secret can be very great in ones counciousness. So how great is our treasure to be the owner of the very infinity, that's inside and surround us!