We constantly search for patterns and meanings. Many of us give ordinary events special, even mystical, significance. This thinking can trap our minds when we see random coincidences as omens or divine messages. Here’s how religious wisdom can help those who fear these “signs from above.”
The Phenomenon of “Bad Signs”: When the Ordinary Becomes Mystical
Imagine buying a lottery ticket and not winning. Instead of accepting the obvious odds, you think: “I have no blessing from above. It’s pointless to seek a better job or ask for a promotion.”
Or picture this: during prayer, you accidentally knock over a charity box. Everyone turns to look. Your mind races: “This is a bad sign. I’m unworthy. My prayers won’t be heard.”
Your rational mind might recognize these thoughts as groundless. Yet emotions create anxiety: “What if this truly is a sign? What if higher powers are sending me a message?” This inner conflict becomes a constant worry, limiting your actions and decisions.
The Wisdom of Rabbi Shach: Stories About Signs and Their True Meaning
Those who see mystical signs everywhere can learn from great religious leaders. Rabbi Elazar-Menachem-Man Shach (1894-2001) was one of the most respected rabbis in the Lithuanian Jewish tradition. He often helped people escape the trap of superstition.
The Shidduch Story: Misreading Coincidence as Divine Guidance
A yeshiva student asked Rabbi Shach about a potential match (shidduch). The young man had a chance to meet a beautiful girl from a respected family. The match seemed perfect.
While gathering information about the bride’s family (a standard step in traditional matchmaking), the student learned about medical issues in her family. Though they claimed the condition wasn’t hereditary, the young man had doubts.
Rabbi Shach listened carefully and said he needed time to consider this complex question. But the student, flattered by the prestigious match opportunity, added another point:
“Rabbi, this offer seems special because different, unconnected people recommended I meet this girl. Isn’t that a wonderful sign from God?”
Rabbi Shach stopped walking immediately and replied firmly:
“You speak like an unwise boy! Such thinking leads you in the wrong direction. Can we interpret heavenly signs? Signs are for those with the spirit of holiness, not for ordinary people like us.”
This wisdom shows us an important truth: even if we notice “signs,” we likely lack the spiritual insight to interpret them correctly.
The Surgery Story: When Following “Signs” Becomes Dangerous
Rabbi Shach often warned against relying on “signs” for making decisions. One telling example involved a child needing surgery.
Doctors scheduled the operation for a Sunday. On Saturday evening, the child developed a fever, and doctors postponed the surgery for safety reasons.
Throughout the next week, the temperature stayed normal. Yet on Saturday evening, the fever returned. This pattern repeated three more times – normal all week, then fever on Saturday night.
After the fourth postponement, the parents began doubting the need for surgery. They saw these “coincidences” as “signs from Heaven” warning against the operation. Instead of returning to the hospital, they visited Rabbi Shach for advice.
After hearing their story, the rabbi asked just one question: “Do the doctors believe the operation is necessary?”
The father answered without hesitation: “Absolutely! The best specialists examined our child and all agree the operation is essential.”
Rabbi Shach gave a clear answer:
“By following these ‘signs,’ you risk breaking the Torah’s prohibition against divination. The Torah forbids relying on such ‘signs’ to make decisions. If doctors say your child needs this operation, but you refuse because of these ‘signs,’ you practice divination – a serious Torah violation! Proceed with the surgery, and God will help everything go well.”
The parents followed his advice. They scheduled the operation for a fifth time, and everything went perfectly. The surgery succeeded beyond all expectations.
Superstitions versus Torah: Understanding the Prohibition
Why “Reading Signs” Violates Religious Teaching
The surgery story highlights how seeking “signs” can directly contradict religious commandments. Rabbi Shach clearly states that this approach may violate the prohibition against divination.
Leviticus 19:26 clearly states: “Do not practice divination or seek omens.” Commentators explain this includes various forms of prediction and basing decisions on perceived “signs.”
Even if someone believes they see “signs from God,” their interpretation may be wrong or dangerous. In the surgery case, following these “signs” could have meant refusing necessary medical treatment.
The Psychological Cost of Superstition
Constant fear of “bad signs” creates anxiety and limits personal growth. When everyday accidents become omens of doom, life becomes a minefield of potential disasters.
Overcoming “Mystical Fear”: Practical Approaches
The fear of “bad signs” has both religious and psychological roots. Here’s how to address both aspects.
Trust Experts in Their Fields
The surgery story teaches us to value professional expertise. When facing medical issues, trust doctors. For psychological concerns, consult therapists. For religious questions, seek guidance from knowledgeable religious leaders.
Know Your Interpretive Limits
Rabbi Shach reminded us that “signs are for those with the spirit of holiness.” This teaches humility in spiritual matters. Most of us lack the wisdom to correctly interpret life’s events. Accepting this limitation frees us from the burden of constantly searching for hidden meanings.
Choose Action Over Passive Waiting
Judaism emphasizes action through commandments and good deeds. Instead of waiting for signs, focus on positive actions aligned with religious teachings.
Building Spiritual Balance: Steps Anyone Can Take
If you struggle with fear of “bad signs,” try these practical steps:
Study Sacred Texts
Deepen your understanding of religious teachings about omens and divination. Knowledge provides the best defense against superstition.
Consult Spiritual Mentors
As Rabbi Shach’s stories show, wise religious leaders can offer perspective that cuts through confusion and fear.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
When fear of “signs” significantly affects your quality of life, consider speaking with a mental health professional familiar with religious concerns.
Practice Mindful Awareness
Learn to notice superstitious thoughts without being controlled by them. Many religious traditions offer meditation practices compatible with faith.
Focus on Constructive Action
Replace passive sign-watching with positive action. Ask not “What does this mean?” but “What should I do now?”
Finding Your Way Forward
Breaking Free from Superstition’s Hold
Rabbi Shach’s wisdom teaches us not to interpret random events as fate’s signals or divine messages. This approach not only aligns with religious teachings but also leads to better life decisions.
Embracing True Religious Wisdom
Genuine religious understanding comes from following clear principles, trusting appropriate experts, and taking positive action rather than passive waiting.
Instead of asking, “Is this a bad sign?” ask, “How can I act wisely in this situation?” This approach frees you from baseless fears and builds peace of mind founded on religious understanding, not superstition.
This article draws from Rabbi Moshe Akselrod’s response to a question about helping someone who sees “bad signs” in everyday events.
