Ben Ish Hai on Keeping Busy

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Ben Ish Hai on Keeping Busy



It is imperative for every woman to perform some work on a daily basis with her own two hands. This applies to all women, no matter what their financial status. Even if a woman has numerous servants to fulfill her every whim, and sufficient money to pay for as much sewing, knitting, and weaving as she could possibly desire, she must make sure to spend some time during each day working with her own hands. The reason for this is that sitting idle has negative effects on women, while keeping busy makes one wiser and well appreciated by one's acquaintances. Listen to the words of Shlomo Hamelech, and you will understand the concept clearly:



[Entire text of Aishet Chayil. . . Shh seeks wool, and flax, and works willing with her hands. She also rises while it is yet night. . . She considers a field, and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She girds her loins with strength, and she makes her arms strong. She perceives that her merchandise is good; her candle does not go out by night. . . . ]



A certain wise man said: "It is good that a woman give tzedakah to the poor from her own earnings. It is also good that a husband provide her with her every need, and if this requires that she spend money, he should not protest. It is even better, however, if she spend her own earnings."



Dear, precious women, may the merciful Creator protect you! Accept my advice and acknowledge my intentions -- take up a trade, such as sewing or knitting. Work with your holy hands with whatever material are available to you. Sell your products through your husbands, and give the poor your earnings. If you will do as I say, the Creator of the world will support you, protect you, save you from all mishap, and fulfill your every desire.