One of the fundamental teachings in Jewish tradition is that our livelihood is ultimately in the hands of HaShem. As the source of all sustenance, HaShem provides for every living creature—from the mightiest animals to the tiniest insects—and gives bread to all. However, the way each person’s livelihood manifests can vary greatly. Some receive their sustenance easily, while others struggle despite their efforts. Understanding this can help us navigate the challenges of making a living with faith, trust, and a sense of purpose.
It’s essential to remember that HaShem determines the sustenance for every person each year on Rosh Hashanah. As our Sages teach, success is not always based on a person’s intelligence or hard work. The reality is that even the wisest may find themselves struggling, while others who appear less capable might prosper. HaShem gives each person their share, and no one can take away what is destined for another.
This perspective helps alleviate feelings of envy or frustration when we see others succeed where we might be struggling. HaShem is just in His distribution, and our job is to focus on doing our part with honesty and integrity. Even if our efforts don’t immediately result in success, trusting in HaShem’s plan allows us to work with peace of mind, knowing that what is meant for us will come in due time.
The Talmud discusses the balance between dedicating oneself to Torah study and engaging in work. Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai believed that one should focus entirely on Torah, with HaShem ensuring that their material needs are met through others. Rabbi Yishmael, however, taught that people should live by the principle of combining Torah study with earning a living, emphasizing that "if there is no flour, there is no Torah, and if there is no Torah, there is no flour."
For most of us, the balance lies in engaging in both Torah study and work, recognizing that HaShem provides for our needs through the natural order. We must strive to work honestly and diligently, while setting aside time for spiritual pursuits. Even in times of financial pressure or busy schedules, we are reminded never to neglect daily prayers or Torah study, as they anchor our lives in faith and ensure that HaShem’s blessing accompanies us.
Engaging in business with integrity is a key principle in Judaism. Whether we are running a business, managing a team, or working for someone else, our actions must reflect honesty, fairness, and kindness. In doing so, we invite HaShem’s blessings into our work. Conversely, pursuing wealth through dishonesty, deception, or cutting corners may bring temporary success, but it will not last. The Talmud teaches that wealth gained unjustly will eventually disappear, leaving behind only regret.
In contrast, when we approach our work with faith, perform mitzvot like giving charity, and rely on HaShem’s strength to guide us, we fulfill our purpose. Even if we face challenges, knowing that HaShem is in control allows us to persevere without fear. The ultimate goal is to balance our work with spiritual dedication, knowing that both our livelihood and success are gifts from HaShem.
Amidst the demands of work, prayer serves as our most powerful tool for inviting HaShem’s blessings into our lives. Before beginning the day, it is a meaningful practice to recite a prayer for success in work, placing our trust in HaShem to guide our efforts. A simple prayer might go like this:
“I am about to engage in my work, and I place my trust in HaShem, who will grant me strength to earn a livelihood for myself and my family with dignity. May it also enable me to perform acts of charity and kindness and fulfill all the commandments properly. HaShem, my Savior, help me for the sake of Your great Name.”
This daily reminder shifts our mindset from one of worry to one of trust. It is HaShem who gives us the ability to succeed, and by turning to Him, we align our efforts with His will. Alongside this, giving charity daily, even a small amount, opens the channels for further blessings and success.
For those whom HaShem has blessed with wealth, there is an important reminder: reduce the time spent on business and dedicate more time to Torah study. The Talmud encourages those who have "more" to use their abundance wisely, enjoying their blessings without becoming consumed by the pursuit of wealth. Gratitude and contentment with what we have bring peace of mind and happiness, while constantly chasing more can lead to unnecessary stress and dissatisfaction.
Ultimately, we are reminded that the real measure of success is not how much we accumulate but how we live. Are we working with honesty? Are we balancing our material pursuits with spiritual growth? Are we placing our trust in HaShem’s plan? These questions guide us toward a life that is not only productive but also meaningful.
Livelihood is not just about earning money; it’s about living a life of faith, trust, and balance. By working honestly, dedicating time to Torah, and praying for HaShem’s guidance, we invite blessings into our lives. No matter what challenges or successes come our way, placing our trust in HaShem ensures that we will always be supported.
In the end, the key to livelihood is faith. Faith that HaShem will provide, faith that our efforts matter, and faith that by living with integrity and prayer, we will see success both in this world and in the next.
In my book Pick Me Up HaShem, you’ll find many prayers that explore how HaShem is constantly drawing us closer to Him, inviting us into a deeper relationship through prayer and reflection. These prayers are designed to help you connect with the divine presence in a way that transcends mere requests and taps into the true purpose of prayer.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into these spiritual truths, consider studying Kabbalah, the mystical tradition that unlocks the profound secrets of our reality and draws us closer to HaShem’s divine wisdom. Delve into teachings that illuminate the “why” behind the Torah, connecting the layers of Creation in a synergized whole and offering a glimpse of HaShem in a way no other study can. From the timeless wisdom of Rabbi Chaim Vital and the Arizal to the unifying insights of Rabbi Sar-Shalom Sharabi (Rashash), Kabbalah not only transforms your spiritual understanding but also brings peace, protection, and redemption closer to our world. Sponsor my study in this sacred tradition and receive its blessings for sustenance, health, and family, ensuring that the powerful light of Kabbalah shines in your merit.
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