When my family once left the house for an extended period of time, we left the windows open in order to air out the house. This was during the summer months. Toward evening, the house became filled with moths, flies, and fleas, which were drawn to the lights in the rooms.
When we finally arrived home, imagine how distressed we were to discover these tiny squatters, which had taken possession of our domain. We deeply regretted having left the windows open. My daughter, in particular, was terribly disturbed by these creatures. “Father,” she cried, “how will we ever get rid of these bugs?”
Together, we thought of a solution. Suddenly, my daughter had a brainstorm. “The bugs are drawn after the light. Let us shut all the lights in the house and turn on the outdoor lights instead. Then the bugs will fly outside and leave us in peace.” That was what we did. Within five minutes, all of the flying creatures flew outdoors. We were finally free of them.
I learned a message from this incident. In Tehillim (36:10), we read, “For with You is the source of life; by Your light may we see light.” Man is enjoined to search for the Source of light, which is Hashem Himself. The Torah is also termed light, as it says (ibid. 97:11), “Light is sown for the righteous; and for the upright of heart, joy.” Moreover, in Megillat Esther, we find the phrase (8:16), “The Jews had light and gladness and joy and honor.” Chazal explain that light refers to Torah.
Just as the flying creatures are drawn after light, but then get burnt by its heat, so must we cling to the Torah until we get scorched by its intensity. This means that one should become transformed by his Torah study, elevated to greater levels.
