Mishneh Torah, Human Dispositions 6

Shalom, my friend! Welcome to a little journey into some timeless Jewish wisdom. Today, we're going to explore something super practical that can really shape your everyday life.

Hook

Ever notice how some people just seem to glow with good vibes, while others... well, not so much? And how those around us can totally rub off on us? Like, if your friends are all about kindness and learning, you probably pick up some of that too. But if they're always complaining or gossiping, it's hard not to get sucked in! Our ancient Jewish wisdom has a lot to say about this. It reminds us that who we spend our time with, and even where we live, deeply shapes who we become. Today, we're diving into a surprisingly modern piece of Jewish thought from a brilliant thinker named Maimonides (we call him the Rambam for short). He's got some great advice for building a life filled with positivity and connection. Ready to explore how to choose your "squad" wisely? Let's go!

Context

So, who is this Maimonides, or Rambam, guy?

• Who: Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon (Maimonides), a brilliant Jewish sage from the 12th century. He was a doctor, philosopher, and legal scholar who lived in Egypt.
• What: He wrote the Mishneh Torah. This isn't just a book; it's a huge, organized collection of all Jewish law (what we call Halakha). He tried to make it easy to understand, like a spiritual instruction manual for life.
• When: The 12th century (that's about 800 years ago!). His ideas are still super relevant today.
• Where: This text, specifically, is from a part of the Mishneh Torah called Human Dispositions. It’s all about building good character and living a moral life. It's like a self-help guide, Jewish style!
• Key Term: Halakha (pronounced Ha-LA-kha): Jewish law, guiding how we live our lives.

The Rambam believed that we aren't stuck with our personalities. We can actively work to become better people. A big part of that work, he says, is about our environment and the people in it. Think of it like a plant: it grows best in good soil with enough light. We're the plants, and our "soil and light" are the people and places around us. This chapter tells us how to pick the best "soil" for our souls. It’s all about making smart choices for growth!

Text Snapshot

Here's a little taste of what the Rambam says (Mishneh Torah, Human Dispositions 6):

"It is natural for a man's character and actions to be influenced by his friends and associates... Therefore, he should associate with the righteous and be constantly in the company of the wise, so as to learn from their deeds. Conversely, he should keep away from the wicked... as [Proverbs 13:20] states: 'He who walks with the wise will become wise, while one who associates with fools will suffer.'"

[You can explore the full text here: https://www.sefaria.org/Mishneh_Torah%2C_Human_Dispositions_6]

Close Reading

Okay, let's unpack these powerful ideas. The Rambam isn't just saying "be nice!" He's giving us really practical, almost strategic, advice for living a fulfilling Jewish life.

Insight 1: Your Squad Shapes Your Soul

The Rambam starts with a simple, yet profound truth: "It is natural for a man's character and actions to be influenced by his friends and associates." (Mishneh Torah, Human Dispositions 6:1) This isn't just a casual observation; it's a fundamental aspect of human nature. We are like sponges, soaking up the attitudes, habits, and even the emotional tones of the people we spend the most time with. The Steinsaltz commentary adds that this is "a person's natural way," something "his habit by his nature." It's hardwired into us!

Think about it: have you ever started using a new phrase after hanging out with someone? Or picked up a new hobby because your friends were into it? This natural inclination to imitate and adapt is incredibly powerful. The Rambam says we should use this power for good. He advises us to "associate with the righteous and be constantly in the company of the wise, so as to learn from their deeds." (Mishneh Torah 6:1)

• Wise (Chachamim): People who are knowledgeable, thoughtful, and live with integrity.

Why? Because if we’re always around people who are kind, honest, and dedicated to growth, those qualities will naturally rub off on us. We'll start thinking like them, acting like them, and even feeling more positive ourselves. He backs this up with King Solomon’s wisdom from Proverbs: "He who walks with the wise will become wise, while one who associates with fools will suffer." (Proverbs 13:20) Steinsaltz explains that "One who joins the wise will become wise, but the friend of fools will be harmed by their company." It’s a direct cause and effect. It's not about being judgmental, but about protecting our own spiritual well-being.

Conversely, he warns us to "keep away from the wicked who walk in darkness." (Mishneh Torah 6:1) This isn't about shunning people, but about recognizing where negative influences might pull us down. It's self-preservation for your soul. Sometimes, that means making tough choices about who gets to be in your inner circle.

Insight 2: Environment Matters as Much as Company

What if your whole environment is a bit... challenging? The Rambam doesn't shy away from this tough scenario. He says, "A person who lives in a place where the norms of behavior are evil... should move to a place where the people are righteous and follow the ways of the good." (Mishneh Torah 6:2) Steinsaltz confirms this: "Go to a place where its people are righteous. And do not dwell near wicked people."

This isn't always easy, of course. Sometimes moving isn't an option due to family, work, or other circumstances. The Rambam anticipates this, too. He considers situations like "bands of raiding troops" (Mishneh Torah 6:3), which Steinsaltz clarifies as "danger in walking on the roads." In our modern world, this could be financial constraints, caregiving responsibilities, or health issues.

So, what then? If you can't move, he offers a powerful alternative: "he should remain alone in seclusion." (Mishneh Torah 6:3) Steinsaltz explains this means to "distance himself from the people of the state and not learn from their actions." This isn't about being anti-social forever, but about creating a protective bubble around your values. If the world around you is pulling you in a direction you don't want to go, sometimes the bravest thing to do is retreat and focus inward. He even suggests going "out to caves, thickets, and deserts" (Mishneh Torah 6:4) if necessary to avoid compromising your values – "thickets" meaning "strongholds, protected places" as Steinsaltz notes. This is a dramatic call to prioritize your spiritual path above all else.

It's a reminder that we have agency. We can choose our influences, or at least how much we let them affect us.

Insight 3: Love Your Neighbor, Gently Admonish, and Protect the Vulnerable

The Rambam then pivots to another core Jewish value: Ahavat Yisrael, the love of fellow Jews. "Each man is commanded to love each and every one of Israel as himself as [Leviticus 19:18] states: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Mishneh Torah 6:3) This isn't just a nice sentiment; it's a mitzvah.

• Mitzvah: A divine commandment or good deed.

This love should translate into actions: "one should speak the praises of [others] and show concern for their money just as he is concerned with his own money and seeks his own honor." (Mishneh Torah 6:4) In short: treat others' reputations and possessions with the same care you treat your own. This love extends especially to converts, those who have chosen to join the Jewish people.

But what if someone is doing something wrong? Love doesn't mean ignoring bad behavior. The Rambam introduces the idea of gentle admonishment. If someone wrongs you, "he is commanded to make the matter known... as [Leviticus 19:17] states: 'You shall surely admonish your colleague.'" (Mishneh Torah 6:6) The key is "privately," "patiently," and "gently," explaining you're doing it for their "own welfare." (Mishneh Torah 6:7) This is about helping someone grow, not shaming them. Public embarrassment, the Rambam warns, is a "great sin" and can even cost a person their "share in the world to come." (Mishneh Torah 6:8) So, speak up, but be kind and discreet.

Finally, the Rambam emphasizes special care for "orphans and widows." (Mishneh Torah 6:10) They are particularly vulnerable, and we are commanded "not to mistreat any widow or orphan." (Exodus 22:21) We must "only speak to them gently and treat them only with honor." (Mishneh Torah 6:10) Nachal Eitan's insights here reinforce the comprehensive nature of this prohibition, covering both widows and orphans and emphasizing God's direct concern for them. The Torah promises severe retribution for those who mistreat them, but also that God "will surely hear their cry." (Exodus 22:22) It’s a powerful call to protect the most vulnerable in our society.

These insights remind us that Jewish life isn't just about rituals; it's about building a character that reflects goodness, actively choosing positive influences, and extending love and gentle support to everyone around us, especially those who need it most.

Apply It

This week, let’s try a super simple, quick practice inspired by the Rambam.

The "Good Vibes Check-In"

1. Notice Your Energy (10 seconds): At the start of your day, or whenever you meet someone new, just take a quick moment to notice how you're feeling. Are you feeling positive, or a bit drained?
2. Observe Your Company (20 seconds): As you go through your day, pay a little extra attention to the people you interact with. Who makes you feel uplifted and inspired? Who, perhaps, leaves you feeling a bit... blah?
3. Choose Consciously (30 seconds): This isn't about ditching anyone! It's about being aware. Can you make a tiny, intentional choice to spend a little more time (even just a text exchange or a quick chat) with someone who brings out your best? Or, if you have to be around someone who drains you, can you consciously try to set an internal boundary, protecting your own positive energy?

This isn't about avoiding challenges, but about mindfully curating your inner and outer environment. Even small shifts can make a big difference in soaking up those "wise" influences and spreading some good vibes of your own!

Chevruta Mini

Time for a little chevruta!

• Chevruta: A learning partnership where two people discuss Jewish texts.

No partner needed right now, just your own thoughts!

1. The Rambam says we should seek out the company of the "wise" and "righteous." In your own life, who are some people you consider "wise" or "righteous," and what qualities do they have that you admire? How do they influence you?
2. The Rambam suggests that if our environment is too negative, we should either move or "remain alone in seclusion." In our busy modern lives, what are some creative, less drastic ways we can "remain in seclusion" or protect our inner space from overwhelming negative influences, even if we can't physically move to a desert?

Takeaway

Your spiritual growth is influenced by your surroundings and your relationships; choose them wisely and lovingly.