More Discussions for this daf
1. The rain in Chutz la'Aretz 2. Fasting 3. Yisurim
4. Praying for more than one thing 5. Can grain in a silo increase in quantity even if it is Samuy min Ha'Ayin? 6. Praying for more than one thing
7. Same'ach in Yisurim 8. Wealth 9. Is Pegiah really Tefillah?
10. Can there ever be a plague even if there is no famine? 11. Praying for more than one thing 12. Praying in vain
13. Praying for more than one thing
DAF DISCUSSIONS - TA'ANIS 8

Mordechai Kirsch asked:

"Whoever joyfully bears the suffering that befalls him."

I have been puzzled by this gemara for over a year. Taanis happens to be one of my favorite masechtas. I have kind of the same question as the other gentleman. It's my understanding that when suffering is brought upon an individual that is underserving of harsh decree, it's to spare them suffering in the world to come. Whether that makes a person "righteous" or not I'm not sure.

Is the reason for this that a person who is suffering will yearn for Moschiach more than the average Yid and thereby hasten the coming of Moshiach while simultaneously yearn for his personal redemption? Does that make any sense?

Mordechai Kirsch, Wayne, NJ USA

The Kollel replies:

The Gemara itself does not seem to be referring to "Yesurim Shel Ahavah" -- "suffering of love" that you are referring to, which is endured by people who Hash-m wants to give a better portion in the next world, as their Mitzvos alone will not get them that portion (according to Rashi in Berachos 5a). The Ramban in Shar Ha'Gemul argues that "Yesurim Shel Ahavah" takes away small sins such as those done accidentally.

However, this Gemara (as explained by the Maharsha) is referring to suffering which takes away one's sins in this world so that he will not have to be punished in the next world. "Better in this world" is probably the practical phrase which applies to almost all afflictions nowadays. When a person realizes that Hash-m is punishing him because He does not want him to suffer in the next world, and accepts this with love, he is solidifying his relationship with Hash-m. A story is told regarding R' Avigdor Miller zt"l that when the doctor apologized to him that a certain procedure was going to cause him pain, he responded, "The more the better!" This is the meaning of our Gemara.

All the best,

Yaakov Montrose

Mordechai Kirsch replies:

Can the type of suffering you are describing be compared to Menachos 29b describe Rabbi Akiva's flesh being sold after being s righteous person?

Mordechai

The Kollel replies:

Rebbi Akiva's afflictions can definitely be said to fall in the category of "Yesurim Shel Ahavah."