Rabbi Akiva’s Devotion Highlights Personal Responsibility in Parashat Shoftim

In a special teaching on Parashat Shoftim, Rabbi Israel Reider reflects on a story from the Talmud and Midrash about Rabbi Akiva’s extraordinary effort to save a single suffering soul condemned to Gehenna. The soul explained it found no rest, prompting Rabbi Akiva to investigate the family’s whereabouts, wait for the birth of a child, ensure the child was circumcised, and teach him Torah and prayer until the boy could recite "Bless the Lord" in synagogue. At that moment, the soul was freed from punishment and later appeared to Rabbi Akiva in a dream, expressing gratitude.

Rabbi Reider emphasizes the lesson behind Rabbi Akiva’s dedication: despite having thousands of students and illuminating all Israel with his teachings, he invested deeply in one individual. This story teaches a fundamental principle in divine service, that when one hears of a need or distress, it is often a sign that the responsibility to help falls upon them. Rabbi Akiva instructs not to ask merely "Who will do it?" but rather "If I heard, perhaps I am the one who must act."

As the Days of Judgment approach, Rabbi Reider urges strengthening sensitivity to others’ needs and joyfully extending help wherever possible. By doing so, we merit receiving mercy from Heaven in return. This message encourages personal accountability and compassion as central to spiritual growth and communal responsibility.