תהלים, פרק ט״ז, פסוק ג׳

A person's standing before God is deeply woven into their relationship with surrounding spiritual figures. This connection spans across time, embracing both those who are active in the world today and those who belong to the past.

The identity of these holy individuals can be understood in a few distinct ways. One perspective relates to the physical ground, pointing to the righteous who have passed away and are buried in the earth. This primarily refers to the holy forefathers Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph. Because they walked truthfully before God and never stumbled, a person can attribute all the good they receive and the fulfillment of their daily needs to the merit of these ancestors [רש״י, אלשיך, המאירי]. Alternatively, this concept refers to living individuals, specifically the righteous and the scholars who currently walk the earth [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A third, broader approach expands this idea to include the entire nation of Israel, which is cherished as God's holy possession [תורה תמימה].

Beyond their holiness, these individuals are recognized as noble. This nobility is a matter of the heart; they are people defined by their excellent character traits and their profound awe of God [רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. A person's response to such figures is one of deep connection and complete delight, which unfolds on several practical levels.

First, it requires a stance of true humility. Just as an individual submits to God, they must also humble themselves before the righteous. This means following in their footsteps, learning from their actions, and striving to be as much like them as possible in order to ultimately reach a pure love of God [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, המאירי]. Second, this connection reflects a fierce desire to join their ranks and rely on their spiritual strength [אלשיך, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Finally, on a deeper internal level, this bond means allowing the righteous to actually govern and shape one's own personal wants and desires [מלבי״ם].