T194 PNC - One Who Desires Honor Is a Fool

Rebbe Nachman gives a sharp parable: a great prince sends his servant to a distant town. The townspeople, not knowing the servant is just a messenger, bow and honor him. The servant becomes proud and delighted, not realizing they are really honoring the prince behind him. Anyone who chases after honor is exactly like that foolish servant — they are receiving honor that belongs entirely to Hashem and mistaking it for their own. The wise person sees through this and is embarrassed to accept honor, knowing it belongs to the Source.