On the one hand we make special blessings for the pleasures of the world. On the other hand if one interrupts Torah learning to experience those pleasures he “brings death to himself.” Are these ideas reconcilable?
How are we to relate to the many pleasures the world offers us?
Our Sages command us to open our hearts and eyes to our physical world and to derive pleasure from it — in a permissible way of course. First and foremost we are obligated to bless and give thanks to the Maker of all worldly pleasures for whatever we receive. The very essence of a brachah after all is an expression of man’s gratitude for the benefit he has received.
A prime example is the blessing on trees which is recited in the month of Nisan when plants are blossoming and new sprouts begin to appear on the trees. “Blessed are You Hashem… who has not caused anything to be lacking from His world and has created good creations and good trees for human beings to enjoy.”
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