Why does G-d, who lacks nothing, issue "commands" to us human beings?
"If we sin, how have we affected Him? If our transgressions multiply, what do we do to Him? If we are righteous, what do we give Him? What can He possibly receive from our hand?"
Chassidim gave the following parable, in answer:
A Russian peasant once said to his friend: "You know, Ivan, I have been thinking. It is really very stupid for us to pay taxes to the Czar."
"Why is that, Igor?" asked Ivan.
"Because do you know where all our rubles come from? Well, I'll tell you. The Czar himself has them minted in his palace, that's where."
"So what?" asked Ivan.
"So what? So why doesn't he just keep all the rubles he needs in the first place, and we'll keep ours!"
"Ah, Igor, you are very stupid" retorted Ivan, "That's the whole point! The Czar doesn't want his rubles. He wants your ruble!"
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