No one likes double standards.
What’s good for the goose is good for the gander, as the saying goes.
It’s easy to spot double standards when comparing two different people, societies or cultures.
But, is it possible to have a double standard in one person? Is it possible for me to treat myself to a double standard?
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In this week’s parshah Ki Teitzei we are taught about many mitzvot. Some are only between man and G-d and others are between man and his fellow. One such example in the realm of business ethics is, “You shall not keep in your pouch a stone and a stone, one large and one small.” Honesty in business is something the Torah reminds us about on several occasions.
Here, however, the wording is strange. Why does the Torah employ the double language of “a stone and a stone” (referring to measuring stones)? Why can’t it simply state not to cheat someone in business? Or, being more specific, state that you should be honest in weights?
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When I walk into a store looking to purchase some vegetables, I often find myself inspecting them to ensure I come home with the best food for my body (and my money). Bigger purchases, such as appliances or automobiles, will be subject to more research and scrutiny.
I’ll bet many would agree that when it comes to our children’s education lots of time will be spent ensuring we live in the right school district, get our children into the best classes and – when the time comes – expend endless hours of research, travel and effort to secure their acceptance into the best college possible.
The same can be said for our health. We will seek out the best doctors, hospitals, medications and environment.
Relationships, careers, and numerous other endeavors and things all meet the same benchmark.
In short, when it comes to our physical, material and emotional needs, we (often rightfully) invest our maximum effort, time and resources.
Can the same be said of our spiritual endeavors?
Do I sometimes find myself rushing through the prayers in shul? In those few sacred moments of prayer, does my mind often wander to everything going on outside the four walls of the synagogue? Am I already planning what I’ll do after I finally leave shul?
Am I investing the same money, time and effort into my child’s (or my own) Jewish education?
Am I spending an equal amount of time, research and resources to acquire a mezuzah – or will any mezuzah do?
Am I analyzing the food I eat just as much to ensure it is kosher. And am I being mindful to say the proper blessing before and after?
Am I on the lookout for a wholesome and healthy life for my soul, just as much as my body?
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The Torah’s messages are multi-layered. By talking about “a stone and a stone,” the Torah is also alluding to a spiritual ‘stone and stone.’
I may indeed be guilty of a double standard. I need to look no further than myself to find it.
During this month of stock-taking, let’s get rid of double standards.