Hishtadlus
Hishtadlus (Hebrew: השתדלות), often translated as "effort" or "endeavor", is a key concept in Jewish thought, referring to the obligation for human beings to make practical efforts in pursuit of their goals, while simultaneously trusting in God for the ultimate outcome. It emphasizes the balance between personal responsibility and reliance on divine providence, and is frequently discussed alongside Bitachon (trust in God). While Bitachon encourages trust in God's plan, Hishtadlus stresses the need for individuals to take action within the natural world to bring about desired results.[1]
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Etymology and definition
[edit]The term Hishtadlus is derived from the Hebrew root Hebrew: ש.ד.ל., meaning "to exert effort" or "to strive." In practice, it refers to the effort a person is obligated to put forth in achieving goals, whether related to livelihood, health, or spiritual growth. Importantly, this effort is not in contradiction to faith in God, but is considered part of a person's responsibility to act in the world.[2]
Hishtadlus and Bitachon
[edit]Hishtadlus is often discussed in tandem with Bitachon (trust in God), as Jewish thought teaches that while one must make reasonable efforts, the results are ultimately in God's hands. This creates a tension: how much effort should one invest before crossing the line into a lack of trust in God's providence? A well-known Jewish principle states that a person should not rely entirely on miracles but should instead exert effort and take practical steps toward solving their problems. However, the amount of effort required—often referred to as the balance between Hishtadlus and Bitachon—can vary depending on circumstances, individual belief, and the guidance of rabbinic authorities.[3]
Practical applications
[edit]Hishtadlus is relevant in many aspects of life, from earning a livelihood (parnassah) to finding a marriage partner or dealing with health challenges. In each of these areas, Judaism advocates for a balance of making a sincere effort while understanding that outcomes are guided by divine will.[4]
- Hishtadlus in Parnassah (Livelihood)
In the realm of earning a livelihood, Hishtadlus teaches that one must work diligently to support themselves and their family, yet recognize that wealth and success are ultimately in God's control. This principle is derived from the Talmudic teaching that while God decrees a person's income, they must still take action to earn it.[5] Practical examples include seeking employment, managing finances responsibly, and pursuing education or training—all while maintaining faith that God will provide as necessary.
- Hishtadlus in Ruchnius (Spiritual Matters)
The concept of Hishtadlus is not limited to material concerns but also applies to spiritual growth. In the realm of spirituality, a person must strive through learning Torah, prayer, and observing commandments, yet they must trust that true success in spiritual matters comes from divine assistance.[6]
How much Hishtadlus?
[edit]One of the central questions surrounding Hishtadlus is: how much effort is enough? Jewish thinkers throughout the centuries have offered various perspectives on this issue. Some authorities suggest that each individual must assess their unique situation and consult with Torah authorities to determine the correct level of effort, as too much reliance on human action can diminish one's trust in God.[7] The story of Noach building the ark, for example, illustrates the balance: despite his immense trust in God, Noach still had to put forth physical effort to build the ark.[8]
Some contemporary rabbis suggest that when it comes to parnassah (livelihood), the key is to make a reasonable effort while avoiding excessive preoccupation with material pursuits.[9]
Hishtadlus in Jewish literature
[edit]The balance between Hishtadlus and Bitachon is a recurring theme in Jewish literature. The writings of Rabbi Yisrael Salanter and other figures from the Mussar movement often stress the need for personal effort, but always with the recognition that human action alone is insufficient without divine help. Books such as Shaar HaBitachon (The Gate of Trust) from Chovos HaLevavos (Duties of the Heart) provide detailed guidance on how to strike this balance.[10]
Contemporary books and articles also address the nuances of Hishtadlus. For instance, Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler, in his seminal work Michtav Me’Eliyahu, discusses the concept of Hishtadlus in depth, arguing that the level of effort required depends on a person's spiritual standing. Those with a high level of Bitachon may need to exert less Hishtadlus, as their reliance on God is stronger, whereas others may need to make more effort.[11]
Other contemporary literature, such as the work of Rabbi Reuven Leuchter, explores the dynamics of Hishtadlus in modern times, particularly in areas like personal finance, family life, and health.[12]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Hishtadlus: Jewish English Lexicon". Jewish Languages. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "How Much Hishtadlus Is Enough?". Mishpacha. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Hishtadlus vs Bitachon". ATIME. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Balancing Hishtadlus for Parnassah". RMBH Charities. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Hishtadlus and Parshas HaMon". Beyond BT. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Hishtadlus in Ruchnius". Aish. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ Rabbi Harry Maryles (April 26, 2011). "Does Hishtadlus Mean Giving More?". Emes Ve-Emunah. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Noach, Hishtadlus, and Bitachon: Finding the Balance". The Shmuz. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Hishtadlus and Livelihood: Outorah". Outorah. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ Rabbi Yosef Gavriel Bechhofer. "Bitachon: Trust in God". Aishdas. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Michtav Me'Eliyahu and Hishtadlus". Outorah. Retrieved September 16, 2024.
- ^ "Filling Up Your Cup of Hishtadlus". Middos Challenges. Retrieved September 16, 2024.