Jewish scholars advise strict visual discipline to curb modern temptations

Rav Reuven Taragin, dean of overseas students at Yeshivat Hakotel, argues that controlling visual intake is the most effective way to manage human desire. In a new piece for the Jewish Link of NJ, the scholar contends that what a person sees directly dictates their thoughts and actions.

The author defines self-control as the highest form of strength. He cites the mishna in Avot 4:1, which identifies the person who governs themselves as the true gibbor. This concept contrasts with common perceptions of strength as physical power or the ability to control external circumstances.

Taragin explains that the Torah distinguishes between impulsive lust and genuine will. He points to the laws concerning a beautiful woman captured during war in Devarim 21:10-14. The text uses the term v’chashakta for the initial attraction and chafatza for the later decision to marry. This distinction requires the soldier to pause and evaluate whether the relationship aligns with his long-term goals.

The scholar uses the story of Yosef HaTzaddik to illustrate the importance of long-term thinking. When tempted by Potiphera’s wife, Yosef saw the image of his father, Yaakov, in the window. This visual cue reminded Yosef that his name would be inscribed on the stones of the ephod only if he remained steadfast. Taragin advises readers to reflect on the enduring consequences of their choices rather than seeking immediate pleasure.

According to Taragin, the first human sin began with a visual stimulus. Chava perceived the fruit of the tree of knowledge as desirable after observing it. He notes that similar visual triggers led to the sins of Dovid HaMelech with Bat Sheva and Achan’s theft from the spoils of Yericho. Achan admitted that he saw a Babylonian garment and two hundred shekels of silver, then coveted and took them.

The author references Bereishis Rabbah 10:2, which states that the eyes perceive a harlot, which then arouses desire. Because of this connection, the Torah commands people not to stray after their hearts and eyes in Bamidbar 15:39. The tzitzit, or fringes, serve as a visual corrective to remind people of their obligations to Hashem.

Taragin notes that modern technology has increased the challenge of visual discipline. Computers and cellphones provide constant access to content that may provoke sinful thoughts. He cites the Yerushalmi, where Hashem declares that if people give Him their heart and eyes, He knows they are His.

The piece concludes with a reference to the book of Tehillim, which petitions for eyes to be turned away from vanity. The Ra’avad states that guarding the eyes protects the heart, and if both are protected, the person is completely safe. Taragin is also the educational director of World Mizrachi and the author of Essentials of Judaism.