Avoth Chapter 1:14 LOST & FOUND

Hillel taught if I am not for myself who will be for me . When I am for myself what am I ? And if now now then when?

This is a most challenging comment. Arrogance and humility are fundamental considerations in evaluating one’s spiritual standing. The Orchoth Zaddikim in Chapter 1 denounces arrogance as being “. . currency invalidated by the Creator . . . “ Additionally commenting on Mishlei 16:5 The abomination of G-D is the haughty in heart” the Orchoth Zaddikim describes the person Mishlei as being given over to the influence of the Evil inclination as G-D’s assistance is removed from such a person as the arrogant person is called by G-D an abomination.

Chassidic tradition associates humility with nothingness, Ayim whereas arrogance with existence, Yesh. Considering these factors a possible reading of Hillel’s famous teaching would be

“If I am humble as nothing realizing that one’s whole existence and survival depends not one oneself but on G-D’s beneficence then the "who I am" is mine.” Such a person who recognizes their continuous connection to G-D stands with only oneself and G-D and therefore such a person is free and independent. If someone else has more it does not brother the humble person. Loss of income of course is a concern but the humble person knows that although one may need to work success and income are from Heaven so if there is problem the believing humble man looks to G-D and prays for salvation.

Whereas

“I am what ? when I am for myself?” If one who considers oneself to be an independent being separate from G-D and not dependent on His support then who does such a person belong to/ Themselves? certainly not, without recognizing G-D’s constant sustenance one is left seeing one’s life depending on outside factors. An arrogant person’s happiness evaporates if slighted or otherwise shown up. Or one who does not rely fully on G-D worries when one’s income is interrupted the arrogant person who and how will replace the lost livelihood.

The remarkable thing that Hillel teaches that even if one is ensnared by the negative thoughts fostered by arrogance one is capable of change even in depths of arrogance one can change. “If not, now when?” G-D has arranged the human condition so that even if one’s attitude is so muddled that one cannot see G-D’s providential hand in all aspects of one’s life if one decides to change right now they can. G-D so deeply wishes people’s success that once one wishes to no obstacle will stand in the way.