Ethics

For the week ending 29 July 2006 / 4 Av 5766

Telling Him Off!

by Rabbi Mendel Weinbach zt'l
Become a Supporter Library Library

Question: A reckless driver makes a dangerous turn to pass my car but we end up side by side at a red traffic light. I am really upset by his behavior and am sorely tempted to tell him off. What is the right thing to do?

Answer: Anger is at least as dangerous as passing on the road. Shouting through your window at the other guy is not only a serious violation of the prohibition against losing one’s temper, but also presents a danger both to you and the object of your outburst. Such a temperamental explosion can cause a disorientation, which creates difficulties for safe driving.

If you feel that the offending driver must somehow be reprimanded so that he will not repeat his misbehavior, you need only wave a scolding finger at him. This will achieve the purpose of calling his attention to his offense without paying the price of a lost temper.

© 1995-2024 Ohr Somayach International - All rights reserved.

Articles may be distributed to another person intact without prior permission. We also encourage you to include this material in other publications, such as synagogue or school newsletters. Hardcopy or electronic. However, we ask that you contact us beforehand for permission in advance at [email protected] and credit for the source as Ohr Somayach Institutions www.ohr.edu

« Back to Ethics

Ohr Somayach International is a 501c3 not-for-profit corporation (letter on file) EIN 13-3503155 and your donation is tax deductable.