#10: Iggeres HaRamban (10 Minutes of Meaning)
Description
In Rabbi Efrem Goldberg’s “Ten Minutes of Meaning,” he delves into the teachings of the Iggeres HaRamban (The Ramban’s Letter), offering insights on personal growth and character development. He begins by emphasizing the importance of humility as a foundational trait for spiritual and personal improvement. Rabbi Goldberg highlights that, according to the Ramban, anger is one of the most destructive traits a person can have. To counter this, he advises that one should focus on speaking gently and calmly at all times, as this practice naturally reduces anger. He explains that when a person removes anger from their heart, they create space for humility. Humility, in turn, is described as the pinnacle of virtues because it allows a person to recognize their dependence on God and to be in awe of Him. Rabbi Goldberg notes that a person with a big ego, which he describes as “edging God out,” cannot truly experience awe or fear of God, as their self-centeredness leaves no room for such feelings.