Big Business

An address to the entrepreneurs of the Machne Israel Development Fund

The word ‘development’ does not describe the process of creating something from scratch; it means taking that which already exists and maximizing it to its fullest potential.

Entrepreneurs especially have this quality. They’re not satisfied with merely fulfilling their ‘obligation.’ Their motivation stems, rather, from a drive to experience their full potential. Similarly, to “do well” is never a proper measure of success. Success is only defined by how well we utilize all of our G-d-given talents and resources.

A “successful” Jew is not one who benefits only his own family, but one who benefits all whom he can reach. We see today that businesspeople in particular have the opportunity, and therefore the responsibility, to benefit their entire communities, cities, states and countries.

The nature of light is to brighten all its surroundings. Regardless of whether the people in a dark room agree or not, a little candle will automatically brighten everything. This is the meaning of: “A Mitzvah is a candle and Torah is light” – every act of holiness a Jew does floods the world around him in Divine light, illuminating the lives of both Jew and non-Jew.