The pharmacist whom the Chofetz Chaim envied

By Rabbi Baruch Lederman

Rabbi Baruch Lederman
Rabbi Baruch Lederman

SAN DIEGO–In Radin, there lived a pharmacist.  The man was not only a caring apothecary; he was involved wholeheartedly in any Jewish cause, from supporting the Yeshivos, to feeding the poor, to maintaining the shuls.  His support was sincere and enthusiastic. 

He was once asked, “Where did this enthusiasm come from?”

The man answered.  “I was once dispensing a prescription to none other than the holy Chofetz Chaim. 

“He thanked me and then shocked me with a statement. “You know,” he said, “I am jealous of you.”

“I looked at him strangely, but he continued.” 

“Imagine the great merit you have!  Saving lives! Healing people! Aiding the sick! What zechusim! What merits!”

“Rebbe,” I pleaded, “Please, let’s not carried away.  You know I do this because I have to make a living!”

The Chofetz Chaim stopped me in my tracks. “All you have to do is say that you are also intending to heal Hashem’s children so that
they can continue in their service and you have brought greatness to what you think is mundane!”  You have elevated the simple job
of a pharmacist into someone who is saving lives for the sake of the Almighty!  How great is the reword for such a man!”

“I was so inspired,” said the man, “that from that day onward, I never missed an opportunity to do more and more for the sake of His
glory.”   [The foregoing true story is documented in Parsha Parables by Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky]

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Rabbi Lederman is spiritual leader of Congregation Kehillas Torah in San Diego.  He may be contacted at baruch.lederman@sdjewishworld.com