Ask the Rabbi - General
What does 'I have set Hashem before me always' mean?
Question
Hello!
I would like to know what the phrase 'I have set Hashem before me always' means? And what does it signify by the term 'hidden and concealed' in the name of all of Israel? (I only know that whoever utters this arouses, through the letters and words, all of Israel). But what exactly does it mean? Was there once an important figure named 'Hidden'? And what about choosing the name 'Hidden' for a child, does it have significant meaning in the Torah?
Thank you very much, esteemed Rabbi.
Answer
Hello and blessings!
'I have set Hashem before me always' means that a person should remember that Hashem sees him at all times and in all situations, and through this awareness, he will guard against sin and conduct himself appropriately before the King. I will quote to you the wording of the Rema at the beginning of the Shulchan Aruch, and this is his wording: 'I have set Hashem before me always, this is a great principle in the Torah and in the qualities of the righteous who walk before Hashem, for a person's movements and actions alone in his home are as if he were sitting, moving, and acting before a great King. His speech and the opening of his mouth as he desires is similar to his speech in the presence of the King, how much more so should a person put to heart that the great King, Hashem, Who fills the entire world with His glory, as it is said, 'If a man hides in hiding places, will I not see him?' says Hashem. Immediately, he will feel fear and humility in the fear of Hashem and will be ashamed before Him always (Moreh Nevuchim, Part 3, Chapter 52). 'Hidden' is an Aramaic word meaning concealed, and the intent in saying 'by the hidden and concealed' is directed towards Hashem.
And the phrase 'in the name of all of Israel' means to awaken the strength of all of Israel. With the help of the hidden and concealed—Hashem, and with the help of the sanctity of all of Israel, the mitzvah will find favor before the Master of all.
Respectfully, Benjamin Shmueli
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