The Baal Shem Tov taught that there are many ways to serve Hashem (each
person according to his strengths and talents). A businessman who is
scrupulously honest, sets a time for Torah, has kavanna (focus) in
davenning and is meticulous about ma'aser cesafim( Charity) is certainly
ovaid Hashem (serving G-d). There are quite a few living examples we can
think of, who would probably be embarassed if we should mention them by name.
According to one source, the lights of the Menora of the Beis Hamikdash
(Temple) also demonstrate the equality of the Kollel man and the baalebos-
the lights on one side of the menora represent the one, the lights on the
other side represent the other and all the lights shine on the same level,
in perfect symmetry.
Toldos Aharon chassidus promotes a combination of Talmud Torah and parnasa
(working for a living). All chassidim are expected to go out and make an
honest living - and also to spend some significant time in the Beis
Hamidrash (study hall). Jerusalem has benefitted greatly by the "wordly"
efforts of these chassidim - the Beis Hachlamah and the Beis Hapletos to
give but two examples.
And may I mention the Torah Temimah and the Chochmas Adam, notable seforim
written by "baalebosim." Earning a living is by NO means a negative
reflection of a person's Torah knowledge or yiras shamayim (fear of heaven)
- that should be obvious! Generally, we must be careful of labels - which
tend to lead to division and misunderstand
Akiva & Gila Atwood
POB 27515, Jerusalem, Israel 91274