The mind runs wild. Can one control his thoughts? If there's an image that’s not to be seen, you can close your eyes. One can just stick a finger in his ears if he doesn't want to hear something. If you want to blab out something stupid – bite your tongue. The mind on the other hand is more difficult to manage [1].
The Zohar [2](and other commentaries[3])opine that there was
a special sacrifice brought to atone for improper thoughts. The name of the offering was- Olah.
R' Bachya Ibn Pekudah - the Bechaya [4]makes some
interesting comments regarding the Olah, he says: "the word
"olah" is translated to mean exalted.
It surpasses all of the other sacrifices, for it atones for the mind's thoughts,
(and the mind is the most important part of a person)...The sacrifice burned
all night for it atones for sinful thoughts (that often occur at night)...”.
What can one do if a sinful thought arises? Here are some suggestions:
1) "Thought is a garment and servant of the intellect
and emotions. Even when it is not
serving the intellect or emotions, it continues to function, thinking and
meditating. However, this activity is then not only devoid of content, but also
open to depravement... It is explained that alien or evil thoughts are caused
by "emptiness of the head."
For when the mind is occupied, the thought has something to serve, and
there is no room for stupid and vain thoughts devoid of substance – Rebbe[5].
2) If the idol thoughts arise during prayer, looking at the
words in the prayer book(instead of praying by heart), helps one focus, and
diverts the mind from wandering - Rebbe[6].
3) In addition, adding more enthusiasm and passion to his
words of prayer help 'burn' away disturbing thoughts - Rebbe Rayatz[7].
[1] See Mayone Shel Torah Tzav in the name of the Sichos
Tzadikim. Cf. Tanya Lekutei Amarim Ch. 28, Igers HaTeshuvah Ch. 7
[2] Tzav 29b in the name of R’Chiya
[3] Medrash Tanchuma Tzav 6 and others
[4] First half of the eleventh century
[5] Hayom Yom 16 Cheshvan
[6] Igros Kodesh vol. 7 p. 362
[7] Sefer Hamamorim Kuntreisim vol. 1 p. 544
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