Last week we explored the similarity between our physical garments (for clothing the body), and our spiritual garments (for clothing our soul). See
http://www.atorahminute.com/womensCorner/2009-03-04
Let us examine if there are any differences between the two and how they differ from each other.
The Ben Ish Hai in his holy work 'Od Yoseph Hai, discusses two differences. The first one is that our physical garments, and by extension our entire physical existence and wealth is dependent totally on Heaven. Whether or not we can afford expensive silk or expensive fabric is decided by our Creator. However, our spiritual garments, their beauty and quality, is an exclusive product of our actions. Our very own deeds determine their value.
There is an additional difference. When we buy fabric with the intention of sewing a new garment with it, and unexpectedly run out of fabric, what do we do? We can easily buy or borrow more fabric to complete the garment. But when it comes to the garments which clothe our souls, it is rather different. If we notice that due to our own actions, our garment is missing something who do we turn to? How do we perfect those garments which clothe our soul? It is done only through the hard work of our own deeds. No one but we ourselves can complete the imperfect garment. The "ball is in our court".
The more we increase our Miswoth and kind deeds -- giving more Sedaqa, greeting our fellow man with a smile, increasing our standards of modesty -- the more exquisite and splendid our garments will be.
So let's prepare our spiritual dresses. Let's greet people with a smile, open our hands to the needy, lower our skirts and raise our necklines, compliment our spouses and children and more. The list is endless.
And when we meet up there we will merit to own clothes that will bring upon us honor and glory.
