Sage vs Thief

A great Jewish mystical teacher Baal Shem Tov used to travel through European cities teaching and helping people. On one occasion he had to choose between staying in the home of a sage or the home of a thief. 

It may surprise you to know that he chose to stay in the home of the thief!

When asked why he did not choose to stay at the home of the great scholar, Baal Shem Tov said: “Although the man is a scholar, he also has a big ego and wherever there is ego, there's no room for God.”

“The thief, however, even with all his negativity, I felt was better than anyone else. He performed negative actions but had no ego - had room to learn and change. But a person who thinks he has all the answers does not feel the need to learn.”

This is one of the best stories I have read because it illustrates an important lesson for those of us on a spiritual path: that knowing everything is not a prerequisite for gaining wisdom. 

This not only applies to our study of spirituality, but it can also be applied to every aspect of our lives. 

If we go into a situation thinking we have all the answers, we will not be open to any new ideas. This applies to everything from a business meeting to a simple lunch with a friend. This understanding can also give us a fresh perspective when it comes to facing our challenges; when we do not have the answers or we cannot find solutions. 

We can always learn something from everyone around us, only if we are open to listening.