יום ה Date: 6 Nisan, 5775 (3/26/15) – Kesuvos#52 {Eliezer}

HARMFUL HELPERS

[52b top] Mishnah: If a wife “became stricken” with an illness, her husband has obligation to help heal her. (R’ Rosner quoting) Ritva: But, if she caused herself to become sick (purposefully or negligently), the husband may not have an obligation in that case.

D-E-ep Thoughts: We are always obliged to help our fellow Jews when they are in need. However, when others intentionally harm themselves, we need to reevaluate our positions. When we know that our help is not wanted (and might even be counterproductive), we should not fan flames of fury. We must try to help others climb higher, but if it is not the proper time (or we are not the correct people for the jobs) we must know when to expend our energies elsewhere.