Al Chet 21

Exploring the Al Chet Prayer
Rabbi Shraga Simmons

21. For the mistakes we committed before You through bribery.
Bribery is most subversive because we are often not aware of how it affects our decisions. In the words of the Torah, bribery is "blinding."

Ask yourself:
Have I compromised my honesty and integrity because of money?
Have I compromised myself for the sake of honor and flattery?
Have I failed to do the right thing because I wanted approval?

Al Chet # 21
44 Roots of Mistakes
by George Brock

The Sin: The Mistakes we committed before You through bribery.

Bribery is most subversive, because we are often not aware of how it effects our decisions.
In the words of Torah, bribery is “blinding”.
Have I compromised my 'honesty' and 'integrity', because of money?
Have I compromised 'myself ', for the sake of honor or flattery?
Have I failed to do the 'right thing', because I wanted approval?

The Battle: Strength {vs} Force.

The Cause:

“Force”- is used to control circumstances.
“Strength”- is the ability to allow circumstances to 'unfold' naturally.

The Victory: Victory comes; when one knows how to overcome 'oneself'', which is an inward journey.

It's always easier and more stimulating to know and overcome others.
One must look beyond the surface to see what is 'real' in himself and in others.

The Goal: The goal is to become strong in Torah and T'shuvah, which will allow one to influence circumstances with the least amount of wasted energy and stress.

If the needs and problems of others become the 'priority', than my needs and problems are less important and much easier to handle when I get to it.
He who learns “Torah”- is rich and knows contentment.
He who 'perseveres' in Torah- is a man of purpose.

“ Realizing; everything comes from G-d for our ultimate good and everything has a purpose; will cause one to observe, interpret and implement what is needed for one's (Soul correction).

Which will give one the victory over bribery”.