The Question of Influence: Vayishlach

Said the Holy One Blessed Be He, “Let Ovadiah, who dwelt among wicked people [Achav and Izevel] but did not learn from their bad deeds, come and prophecy about Esav, who dwelt among righteous people [Yitzchak and Rivkah] but did not learn from their good deeds.” (Sanhedrin 39b).This profound statement highlights the unique strength of Ovadiah, who, despite immense negative influence, remained steadfast in his righteousness.

The Gemara further recounts how Ovadiah risked his life to save one hundred prophets from the murderous King Achav and Queen Izevel, hiding them in caves and providing them with sustenance. His brief but powerful prophecy offers insight into the tension between individual integrity and societal influence. How does one remain true to their values when faced with overwhelming external pressure?

This struggle is captured in a famous 1951 psychological study by Solomon Asch. Participants were asked to identify the longest line in a set of three. When alone, individuals answered incorrectly 1% of the time. However, when placed in a group where others intentionally gave incorrect answers, the error rate skyrocketed to 33%. The pressure to conform when the correct answer was obvious proved overwhelming for many. Asch later modified the experiment, introducing a single ally who gave the correct response. The presence of just one supporter significantly emboldened participants to resist group pressure and choose correctly. This finding underscores the importance of external support in maintaining one’s convictions. But what happens when no ally is present, if you’re alone? And what if the "right" choice isn’t immediately clear?

Ovadiah’s strength in the face of Achav and Izevel’s wickedness offers a compelling answer. A convert from Edom—a nation synonymous with immorality—he faced immense challenges yet remained resolute in his convictions despite being alone. But is man ever truly alone? For one who believes in Hashem’s constant presence, there is always support. This awareness affirms core values, providing clarity through Torah and strength to uphold what is right. Ovadiah succeeded where many falter because of his unwavering connection to Hashem. Even when physically isolated, he knew he was never alone, drawing empowerment from Hashem’s ever-present guidance.

The name Ovadiah reflects this connection: a combination of עבד (servant) and קה (Hashem). A servant depends entirely on their master, drawing strength and purpose from that relationship. Ovadiah’s profound awareness of his role as Hashem’s servant fortified him, enabling him to defy societal pressures, even at great personal risk.

Ovadiah’s legacy teaches us that true strength comes from recognizing Hashem’s presence in our lives. This awareness not only provides clarity in moments of moral ambiguity but also gives us the courage to stand firm against the tide of conformity. In a world where so many go along with the crowd—whether in mass rallies or groupthink—Ovadiah’s example calls us to think for ourselves and stand by our convictions. Even if we feel isolated, we are never truly alone, for Hashem is always by our side. That knowledge empowers us to rise above, to act with integrity, and to uphold what is right, even in the face of opposition.