This principle is taught by the scribe Ezra, who said that two scribes should sit side by side, as their mutual envy would lead to better results. It is also based on the verse from the Book of Proverbs:
“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but be zealous in the fear of the Lord all the day.” (Proverbs 23:17)
Zeal
Most forms of envy are undoubtedly harmful, but a person who directs their envy—or zeal—toward piety and spiritual matters will increase their own wisdom and that of the world. This means that the feeling of envy does not always have to be unacceptable. An emotion with negative connotations can indeed be a tool for inspiration and the growth of wisdom. The envy spoken of here is a means to establish a connection with God.
Today, Israelis use this expression in a very broad sense, applying it to envy among people engaged in pursuing wisdom, learning, writing, or teaching (the “scribes”). This envy is not destructive but rather...
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Beautiful!