| Becoming a Five Percenter “Five percent of the people think; ten percent of the people think they think; and the other eighty-five percent would rather die than think.” – Thomas A. Edison Thinking must be a very hard thing if such a small percentage of people engage in it. Jacob vowed (Genesis 28:22) that he would build G-d’s house in Beit-El (Bethel). After nearly 22 years, G-d held him accountable for that promise:“Arise, go up to Beit-El and dwell there, and make an altar there to G-d, Who appeared to you when you fled from Esau, your brother.” (35:1) We can understand G-d holding Jacob accountable for his vow, but why does He specifically tell him to dwell there? According to Ramban, “dwell” is a metaphor for thought. Jacob needed to remain in Beit-El until his mindset was fully prepared for the task at hand. It wasn’t enough to simply build an edifice; he had to pour his entire being into the project. Imagine a wealthy man planning a special anniversary surprise for his wife. While he could hire a caterer to handle everything, he insists on cooking and decorating himself. His wife’s sense of connection to him will be much stronger when she tastes and experiences the fruits of his personal labor, compared to simply going to a restaurant or enjoying a catered meal at home. Anyone can make a reservation, but crafting the experience with care and thought creates a deeper bond. A woman we know once dated a man, and their relationship was becoming serious. She came from a modest background, while he was already a high-income earner. On one occasion, she was away for business, and when she informed him of her return flight, he sent a limo to pick her up. She was upset and asked, “Why didn’t you pick me up yourself?” He replied, “I thought this was a grand gesture—that’s just how I do things.” She responded, “In my family, we would have picked you up at the airport, prepared food and drinks, and asked how your flight was.” The value of giving time and thought is immeasurable. In many aspects of our relationships, we don’t simply value getting things done—we value the thought and effort behind the action. Those are the things that truly touch our hearts. If this applies to human relationships, imagine how much more it applies to our relationship with G-d. Jacob couldn’t just fulfill his vow mechanically; he needed time to prepare himself for the profound task of building a structure dedicated entirely to G-d. So, how do we become part of the “five percent” Edison described? We think. We reflect on our relationships—whether with loved ones, acquaintances, or strangers—because those thoughts give us purpose and direction. What will the context of my day be?Will I encourage or discourage?Will I show interest in others or remain indifferent?How will I treat those who love me and dedicate their thoughts and actions to me (even when they make mistakes)?How will I speak with G-d? What will I ask of Him? The concept of mindfulness has gained popularity in recent years, but Judaism has always recognized its importance. Before Jacob could embark on his sacred mission, he needed time to reflect on its magnitude and focus on the work ahead. Each of us has missions to carry out in our lives. Whether it’s being a role model, supporting a synagogue, or sustaining Jewish educational and charitable institutions, we can follow Jacob’s example. Taking the time to “dwell” before we act—contemplating the scope of our work and the tools needed to succeed—can make all the difference. Good Shabbos! |
