Image: A checklist and tools. Photo by stevepb via pixabay.com.
How does my behavior online stack up against the values of Torah? This is an environment of words and images, and our tradition has a lot to say about the use of words and images. Take this inventory to do a personal review:
Nitai of Arbel says: “Distance [yourself] from a bad neighbor, do not befriend an evildoer and do not despair of punishment.” – Pirkei Avot 1:7
How do I spend my time online? Do I use this resource to learn and to converse with people who are a good influence on me? Or do I waste valuable time on worthless activities? Is there anything I do online that I feel I must keep secret? Is there anything I would be embarrassed to have come to light?
Every argument that is for [the sake of] heaven’s name, it is destined to endure. But if it is not for [the sake of] heaven’s name — it is not destined to endure. What is [an example of an argument] for [the sake of] heaven’s name? The argument of Hillel and Shammai. What is [an example of an argument] not for [the sake of] heaven’s name? The argument of Korach and all of his congregation. – Pirkei Avot 5:15
What has my goal been in arguments online? According to Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, a 13th century Catalan rabbi named Menachem Meiri taught that Hillel and Shammai argued in order to uncover the truth. They argued with great energy, but it was essentially a joint venture. The argument of Korach was based in ill-will: Korach wished to prevail over Moses, and humiliate him. Korach wanted to win the argument. So the first question: when I get into an argument with someone, am I like Hillel or like Korach?
When R. Eliezer was about to depart, his disciples paid him a visit and requested him to teach them only one more thing. And he said unto them: Go, and be careful, each of you, in honoring your neighbor; and when you are praying, remember before whom you stand and pray, and for the observation of these you will have a share in the world to come. – Minor Tractate Derech Eretz Rabbah, Chapter 3
How do I treat other people online? Am I a mensch? Am I careful in honoring my neighbor? Do I treat other people with the respect due other human beings? Or do I count some as beneath any need for polite speech? Do I sometimes forget that every human being contains the divine spark, some element of the Holy One, perhaps very well hidden?
… continued at Social Media Inventory Part 2
thank you Rabbi for the timely consideration especially involving the sages; nothing new under the sun 😉
In preparation for the High Holy Holidays, these are all good ideas to consider as I use my computer each day. Reminders well taken.
What I’ve been starting to do on social media is to read your posts more! I’ve been a subscriber for around a year or so but I never actually read your posts. Now I have started to because I am considering going to synagogue services regularly again for the first time in 20 years. Your posts have helped in this regard.
Thanks!
So glad it’s helpful! Let me know it goes!
Reblogged this on Hebrew Hutong and commented:
First of two brilliant and thought-provoking posts by Rabbi Adar on ensuring that our behavior online is in keeping with Torah.
Thank you! I learn lots from your blogs, too!
I’m flattered beyond words. Thank you, rabbi!
Way cool. BTW, I once did this http://www.behrmanhouse.com/news/the-ten-commandments-of-social-media
Fabulous! Just now tweeted it!
This was a wonderful read…thank you for referring this resource. I forwarded it to someone who consistently sends offensive emails to me with a sincere apology attached if by sending it I offended the receiver.