ויחל משה את פני ד' אלקיו
A distinction exists between a sin that reveals an essential moral flaw and a spiritual shortcoming and one that is the result of circumstantial pressures. A surface-level sin is an error in action or inaction resulting from impulsivity, ignorance or external pressures. This type of sin, although baneful, does not necessarily reflect the sinner’s true character or values. The sins are nonetheless significant, but rectifiable via the medium of teshuvah, repentance. A sin which is deeply-rooted in a spiritual flaw reveals deeper issues within a person’s moral/spiritual psyche. His actions are not isolated errors, rather of profound misalignment with Torah…