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How can tzaddikim value money more than their bodies when halacha (הלכה) forbids risking life for money? The principle 'chaval aleihem mamainam yoser migufam' means tzaddikim maintain rational calculation even in crisis, using resources precisely as needed rather than emotionally. Money deserves careful attention because it can serve Hashem (ה׳) in ways the body cannot.
The shiur begins with the famous statement from Chazal regarding baby Moshe's ark: 'tzaddikim chaval aleihem mamainam yoser migufam' - that tzaddikim care more about their money than their bodies. This principle also applies to Yaakov Avinu who returned for 'pachim ketanim' (small vessels) despite the danger from Esav. Rabbi Greenberg addresses the obvious difficulty: how can righteous people seemingly value money over life when halacha (הלכה) clearly forbids risking one's life for money? The explanation centers on proper understanding of the concept. In both cases, the tzaddikim made precise calculations of what was actually needed. Moshe's parents didn't build a flimsy ark to save money - they built it exactly as strong as necessary for the water conditions. Any stronger would have been wasteful without providing additional protection. Similarly, Yaakov didn't endanger himself unnecessarily - he had already made all preparations and was waiting; the general danger from Esav existed regardless, so retrieving the vessels didn't create additional risk.
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Parshas Shemos - baby Moshe's ark
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