by torahgirl

The “Unpaid Guardian” represents the individual who feels that he was only created to serve G-d. He sees his life and possessions as Divine “property” which has been placed in his trust, and he does not feel that G-d owes him anything in “compensation” for his efforts.

The “Borrower” benefits from what he borrows, and the owner enjoys no benefit. This represents an individual who seeks self-fulfillment alone. He does not feel that he owes anything for the use of life’s blessings, even though he may acknowledge who the ultimate owner is.

The “Renter” resembles the Borrower in that he prioritizes the fulfillment and enhancement of self, but nevertheless, he feels that he ought to earn this privilege by “also” serving his Creator.

The “Paid Guardian” is like the Unpaid Guardian in that he sees the fulfillment of G-d’s will as the ultimate purpose of life. He differs only in that he reserves for himself a small amount of self interest, feeling that he also deserves some independence in return for his work as a guardian of G-d’s property.

-the Gutnick Chumash commentary on the first few verses of Exodus 22, parasha Mishpatim {from Likutei Sichot}

Which one are you – an Unpaid Guardian, a Borrower, a Renter, or a Paid Guardian?

=)