Ask the Rabbi
- Torah and Jewish Thought
- Emuna - Jewish Thought
- The Jewish Attitude to Evil
Question
"how can someone get rid of evil from their life?"
especially if its coming from external people.
thanks
Answer
Shalom,
Thank you for your question. The concept of “evil” can appear at many different levels – and the way to “get rid” of it will depend on which type of “evil” you are referring to.
There is evil that is wrongdoing comes from people around us (as you mention). The simplest thing to do is to distance oneself from such people. However, that is not always so simple. Sometimes we are connected to people and situations without much choice. Then one needs to work on building up in themselves barriers and ways to not let the bad reach them, or affect them.
Next, there is evil that comes from our own bad deeds. A person needs to constantly try to grow in order to improve themselves – and change their behavior.
At a more inner level, we all have an “evil inclination” – an inner part of our soul, that we will spend all our lives struggling with. The Torah and Mitzvot give us a pathway to help us in this struggle.
I hope this is of some help.
Blessings.

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