NOTICING WARNING SIGNS
Recognising the early signs of a problem and addressing it before it escalates is a vital lesson we learn from this week’s parasha.

“Should your brother become poor and is struggling, vehechezakta bo—then extend him support.” (Vayikra 25:35)

The Hebrew phrase vehechezakta bo comes from the root chazak, meaning to be strong. Our response must be to offer chizuk—strength and support—not only once the person has fallen, but ideally beforehand, when we first notice that they are beginning to stumble.

Rashi illustrates this with a powerful analogy: imagine a donkey laden with a heavy load. If the load starts to shift, one person can step in to adjust and secure it. But if the burden falls completely, even five people may not be enough to lift it back on. The message is clear—early intervention is key.

The Torah’s immediate context refers to financial decline. We are taught that if someone’s financial situation begins to deteriorate, we must step in with assistance—ideally a loan, but critically, one given without interest. The goal is to prevent collapse, not merely respond to it.

Yet the principle extends far beyond monetary matters. “Your brother… is struggling” could just as easily refer to emotional or relational distress. It could be a teenager silently battling an eating disorder, a marriage beginning to fracture, or a friendship under strain. Waiting for the “load to fall” often means confronting a far messier and more painful situation. But if we are attuned to the early signs—and respond with wisdom, compassion and strength—we may prevent much heartache.

Modern medicine illustrates this principle well. Through regular monitoring and screening, many serious conditions are now caught in their earliest stages, where treatment is most effective. This same proactive mindset is invaluable in all areas of life.

The Or HaChayim (Rabbi Chayim ibn Attar, 1696–1743) takes this even further. He includes spiritual challenges within this framework. If someone is wavering in their faith, feeling distant or disillusioned, offering a listening ear, encouragement, or genuine Torah insight can be a powerful form of chizuk. There may be no greater act of support than helping someone find their way back when they are beginning to drift.

May we all develop the sensitivity to notice the early signs—and the courage and kindness to respond with strength.