There seems to be an unusual amount of “hurrying” and “running.” Also, did Avrham Avinu have to serve his guests personally? The Alshich HaKadosh writes: “Avraham teaches us two proper courses of action in carrying out mitzvos. First, zerizus, alacrity. Second, whatever one can do personally is preferred.” The Patriarch ran personally to serve his guests. Zerizus is one of the fundamental attributes listed by Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair as leading up to kedushah, holiness. Indeed, alacrity/enthusiasm is a fundamental step in mitzvah observance and toward leading a productive life. One who acts with zerizus does not defer to tomorrow what can be done today. To do something at the first possible chance indicates that one cares.
Furthermore, zerizus is transformative, having the ability to change a person who is by nature slothful into one who is excited and eager, who promptly carries out his responsibilities. In the seventh perek, chapter, of Mesillas Yesharim, the author teaches us about one of the extraordinary benefits of zerizus. Acting externally with zerizus transforms a person internally into an individual who loves his Master and is eager to serve Him.
Ish L’Reiehu cites two inspirational stories which reflect the attitude of our gedolim, Torah leaders, concerning the middah of zerizus. Once, a group representing the lay leadership of Bnei Brak came to the Chazon Ish to consult with him concerning a communal issue. The matter was discussed and the sage issued his ruling. He observed, however, that these men were in no apparent hurry to carry out the decision. They seemed to be procrastinating. The Chazon Ish looked at them with his penetrating eyes and commented, Linu poh ha’laylah, “’Spend the night here,’” was Bilaam’s advice to the elders of Midyan (Bamidbar 22:8). Decisions that are reached should be carried out immediately. Pushing it off until the next day is the way Bilaam and his cohorts work.”
A poignant lesson concerning the significance of alacrity is gleaned from the Alter m’Slabodka, Horav Nosson Tzvi Finkel, zl. When his son, the future Rosh HaYeshivah of Mir, Horav Eliezer Yehudah Finkel, zl, was learning in Yeshivah away from home, his father would write him a short letter at various intervals. While each letter was a profound pedagogical masterpiece, one comment remained the same in each correspondence. The Alter would write: “My dear son, Every subject that you confront; every question which you must answer; every issue that must be clarified – think how you would render a decision to this question if today happened to be the very last day of your life.”
What a powerful and meaningful suggestion. We offer advice without thinking through the issue rationally. We make statements that often are without foundation, that lack prudence. If this were to be the very last decision that we render, our attitude would change quickly. In this sense, zerizus means aforethought, realizing the significance of what he is about to do. When one thinks before he acts, he acts differently. That makes all the difference.
