"Competition is very intense," explained a salesman friend of mine. "If we wouldn't use all these high pressure tactics and clever scams we'd be out of business in no time".
One of the things my father, Rabbi Eli Teitelbaum o"h, is remembered for is dealing with money scams that plagued the frum communities. When you combine a poor education, no job and major bills to pay you get the perfect victim. It was difficult work, my father was brought to Beis Din many times by those who believed he was causing their businesses financial loss. Trying to explain a pyramid scam to those that have no business experience is almost as difficult as building a pyramid itself.
Recently there have been declarations by Rabonim that are finally taking a step against fake mekubalim and other "charity organization" promising you any wish you desire. For someone that is suffering, and who isn't, this is an easy gimmick. What astounds me the most is that we talk about emunah and bitachon but we have so perverted the true meaning. We seem to think it's about getting what we want without working hard, while the true definition is quite the opposite. Bitachon is about doing what is right in Gods eyes when the outcome might not be beneficial for you. Bitochon isn't a get out of jail free card but rather its about knowing you did the right thing despite the fall backs!
Dovid Teitelbaum
Parshas Mishpatim: Do we conduct our Business Honestly?
By Rabbi Eli Teitelbaum OB"M
