Rabbi Chanina Ben Dosa Said: "Whenever A Person's Fear Of Sin Comes Before His Wisdom, His Wisdom Will Endure; But When A Person's Wisdom Comes Before His Fear Of Sin, His Wisdom Will Not Endure."

Whenever A Person's Fear Of Sin Comes Before His Wisdom

Fear of sin involves self-nullification; a person restricts his own self-expression lest he violate G-d's will. Such an approach is developed through prayer, for prayer helps a person redefine his identity. Instead of remaining conscious only of his ego, through prayer a person develops a connection with the inner "I" of his G-dly nature.

Such an approach expands his conceptual horizons and ensures that his wisdom will endure. He will not view the Torah he studies as merely an abstract, intellectual discipline, but as G-dly truth that should permeate every dimension of his existence. This approach will cause his Torah knowledge to become a lasting part of his being.

(Sichos Shabbos Parshas Ki Savo, 5728)

The lesson taught by our mishnah is particularly relevant in the area of chinuch, education. First and foremost, it is important to establish a foundation of fear of G-d. This foundation will enable knowledge to flourish. Moreover, the order of precedence taught by the mishnah is not merely chronological. Fear of G-d represents a higher rung and a more desirable quality than mere wisdom.

(Likkutei Sichos, Vol. XXII, p. 402)