Emuna & Bitachon: Distinction, Interdependence, and the Path to True Avodat Hashem

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In this article, we will explore the concepts of emuna (sometimes referred to as faith) and bitachon (sometimes referred to as trust) through the lens of the Chazon Ish’s Emuna U’Bitachon. While these terms are sometimes confused for one another and used interchangeably, the Chazon Ish provides a nuanced understanding of the two, showing how they are distinct but interdependent. Below is an expanded discussion of these concepts, along with their practical applications, based on his teachings.

Emuna vs. Bitachon: Distinctions and Relationship

Emuna can be understood as a broad, general belief or theoretical conviction in Hashem, His existence, and the fundamental principles of Torah which are codified in the thirteen principles of faith. It is the acknowledgment that Hashem is the Creator of the world and that He is intimately involved in the affairs of the universe. This type of faith is intellectual and abstract. A person who has emunah believes in Hashem’s omnipotence and His divine plan, but this belief remains on a conceptual level—it is not yet tested in real-life situations.

Bitachon: Practical Trust

Bitachon, by contrast, is the application of emuna in one’s personal life. It refers to the active, practical expression of faith, particularly during times of uncertainty or crisis. Bitachon is when a person, based on their belief in Hashem, places their trust in Him to provide, protect, and guide them through difficult circumstances. It is a type of trust that manifests in behavior and decisions, demonstrating that a person truly believes in Hashem’s ability to intervene in their life, not just in theory, but in a real, tangible way.

The real challenge of faith comes when a person faces a crisis or a situation that tests their beliefs. It’s easy to claim that one has bitachon when everything is going well. During times of comfort and security, it’s simple to say that you trust in Hashem. However, the true measure of bitachon is revealed when a person faces a difficult or uncertain situation—whether it’s a health crisis, financial difficulties, or an emotional struggle.

In simpler terms, bitachon is emuna in action. It is the moment when the belief in Hashem’s sovereignty and goodness leads a person to rely on Him, even when faced with challenges, doubts, or fear. Bitachon is not just about knowing that Hashem is in control but trusting that He will help you personally when you need it the most.

Theory vs. Practice: The Real Challenge of Bitachon

At this point, a person must decide whether they will truly act on their belief in Hashem, or if that belief will remain abstract and distant and not guide them in their situation. If someone claims to have bitachon but resorts to panic, unhealthy coping mechanisms, or relies excessively on worldly solutions (such as money, manipulation, or even people’s approval), then their bitachon has not been fully realized. They may have emuna (the belief in Hashem) but lack the practical trust (bitachon) that comes with actively relying on Him in every aspect of life.

Self-Deception and the Illusion of Bitachon

The Chazon Ish warns against the ease of self-deception. He explains that a person can easily convince themselves that they possess strong bitachon when, in reality, they have not fully internalized the trust that should be reflected in their actions. This is a common trap. For example, someone might say, “I trust in Hashem,” or “I believe that Hashem is in control,” but when a crisis arises, their actions suggest otherwise. They might turn to anxiety, panic, or over-reliance on practical means rather than trusting in Hashem’s guidance.

The Chazon Ish likens this type of superficial bitachon to the “beautiful and pleasurable dreams” a person experiences at night. While a dream might feel real and comforting, it is ultimately disconnected from the waking reality. Similarly, a person might comfort themselves with the idea that they trust in Hashem, but when faced with a real test, they find that their faith is more theoretical than practical. They may be living in a dreamworld where their bitachon is an idealized concept, but it has not yet been tested or proven in real life.

The True Test of Bitachon

The real test of bitachon occurs when a person is faced with a situation that demands genuine, practical action based on their faith. This test is not just about saying the right words or professing one’s belief in Hashem. Rather, it is about making decisions, taking actions, and displaying behavior that align with one’s trust in Hashem’s guidance and providence.

For instance, if a person is facing a health crisis, someone with bitachon will seek medical help and take care of their body, but their ultimate trust will lie in Hashem’s will. They will pray for a refua, remain calm in the face of uncertainty, and avoid unnecessary panic or despair. Their actions will reflect their deep belief that Hashem is in control and that their healing or recovery is in His hands.

Conclusion: Faith in Action

Ultimately, the Chazon Ish teaches that bitachon is not merely a passive belief but an active expression of faith that shapes every aspect of a person’s life. It’s easy to say we believe in Hashem’s goodness when everything is going well, but true bitachon is demonstrated through the actions we take when we are tested. The real question is whether, in the face of adversity, we will remain steadfast in our trust in Hashem, relying on Him even when the outcome is uncertain or beyond our control.

To truly embody bitachon, we must not only believe in Hashem’s power but live in a way that reflects that belief in every decision, action, and response to the challenges of life. Emuna and bitachon work hand in hand, and the true way to achieve both is not simply through intellectual acceptance of Hashem’s existence, but through a profound, practical trust in His ability to guide and sustain us through every moment of our lives.