The month of Elul is upon us, a time for inner-reflection and positive resolutions for the upcoming year. Often times, this process is accompanied by an "ethical dilemma": is it hypocritical to resolve to do a particular mitzvah when the person remains an altogether "unspiritual individual"? Would it be proper for me to commit to pray every day if I am not yet prepared to give up non-kosher foods? This problem is especially accentuated when a person is temporarily inspired to do a particular mitzvah, but is just not ready to make a long term commitment. What value is there to making kiddush this Shabbat if I didn't do it last week and probably will be playing golf at this time next week? If mitzvot are about self-betterment and real commitment, is there any purpose in a one-night stand?
The answer to this question isn't clear-cut, and actually depends on intention of the person performing the mitzvah. Indeed, the person who views the mitzvot and a Torah lifestyle as a means of achieving a
In truth, however, observing mitzvot is not merely a panacea which imparts a lifetime of spiritual bliss. Yes, it is true that a Torah led life offers all the above benefits—but they are fringe benefits. The meaning of the word "mitzvot" is "commandments," and that is precisely why we observe them, because we are servants of the A-lmighty and we follow His orders.
When approaching the mitzvot from G‑d's point of view instead of a self-centered approach, suddenly there's no such thing as a hypocritical mitzvah. A normally miserly person who decides to give a donation to the poor may feel hypocritical—but to the poor person that is irrelevant. All that matters to him is that he finally has bread to put in the mouths of his family. So perhaps the miser isn't perfect, but the act was! Every mitzvah which is done is beautiful in the eyes of G‑d – no matter what tomorrow will bring – and isn't that what it's all about?
I really needed to read this. I struggle with a particular sin that I keep doing although I hate and don't want to do. I hate feeling temporarily separated from
G-d because I am ashamed. In my heart I really love G-d and want to serve him. When I was younger, I used to think I had to be perfect, do everything perfectly and felt I was being hypocritical when I wanted to do good. Therefore I wouldn't do good because I didn't want to be hypocritical! Years of experience (and teaching) have taught me that I may not do things perfectly but when I mess up to fall forward because I am falling forward for the team.