Are We All Equal?

Are we all equal? Or are some of us better than others?

I think we can agree that although we all deserve to be treated equally, we are not, in fact, equal. Some of us has have skills in areas that other don’t. It would be ludicrous for someone to demand equality in order to perform a brain surgery or fly a plane.

While some may allow their accomplishments or talents to get to their head, Judaism sees success as a responsibility.

The Talmud relates regarding the great scholar and redactor of the Mishna, Rabbi Yehuda HaNassi, that he would honor the wealthy. Why emphasize that he honored the wealthy, rather than say the charitable or the pious?

Everything in this world is due to the Divine Plan. The fact that a certain person is wealthy and therefore has the means to impact the world in a positive way through that wealth, reflects the soul potential of the individual. This is also obviously true with regard to someone who has a particular talent or skill.

But this gift (of wealth or talent etc) is not just for personal use. Hashem gives us the extra blessings in order for us to share it for the benefit of others. So if you are wealthy, it’s in order to help support community organizations; if you are talented in a specific area, it’s in order to share your talent for the benefit of others.

Help spread the wealth!