Naphtali, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, is on his deathbed, surrounded by his family. And what he says is pretty remarkable.

“I am one hundred and twenty-two years old," he proclaims, "and I can discern no sin in myself. Save my wife, I have known no woman. I was guilty of no unchastity through the lifting up of eyes.”

Think about that for a moment. No sin. At all. It's a bold statement, isn’t it? He continues, laying out the principles that guided his life, principles he hopes his children will embrace.

"I drank no wine, that I might not be led astray," Naphtali explains. "I did not covet what belonged to my neighbor, guile had no place in my heart, lies did not pass my lips."

These aren't just empty words. Naphtali is presenting a model of ethical living, focused on self-control, honesty, and contentment. He avoided temptations that could lead him astray, guarding his thoughts and actions with vigilance. It is quite a contrast with the normal behavior we see in the world, isn't it?

But it's more than just personal rectitude. Naphtali’s righteousness extends outward, encompassing compassion and love for others. "I sighed along with all that were heavy-laden, and to the poor I gave my bread." He felt the pain of others and actively sought to alleviate their suffering. He embodied the principle of tzedakah (righteousness/charity), not just as an obligation, but as an expression of genuine empathy.

And finally, the most important part: “I loved the Lord with all my might, and mankind I also loved.” This is the core of his being, the very foundation upon which his virtuous life was built. Love for God and love for humanity – inseparable, intertwined.

So, what’s the result of such a life? Naphtali believes it offers protection from the forces of evil. "Do ye likewise, my children," he urges, "and all the spirits of Beliar will flee from you, no deed done by the wicked will have power over you, and ye will vanquish all the wild beasts, for ye have with you the Lord of heaven."

Beliar, in this context, represents the embodiment of evil, a figure often associated with the devil. Naphtali is saying that by following his example, his children can shield themselves from malevolence. More than that, they will have the strength to overcome any adversity, because they will have the support of God.

Naphtali’s final words are more than just a father’s advice; they’re a testament to the power of righteous living. A life dedicated to God, compassion, and integrity isn’t just virtuous – it’s a force field against the darkness. It is a powerful message to us, even today.

What if we all strove for that kind of purity, that kind of unwavering dedication to good? What kind of world could we create? It is something to think about, isn't it?