A Share in the World to Come

A Share in the World to Come - a story about the prophet Elijah and two clowns

‘Rabbi Baruqa of Huza often went to the marketplace at Lapet. One day, the prophet Elijah appeared to him there, and Rabbi Baruqa asked him, “Is there anyone among all these people who will have a share in the World to Come?”

Elijah answered, “There is none.”

Later, two men came to the marketplace, and Elijah said to Rabbi Baruqa, “Those two will have a share in the World to Come!”

Rabbi Baruqa asked the newcomers, “What is your occupation?” They replied, “We are clowns. When we see someone who is sad, we cheer him up. When we see two people quarreling, we try to make peace between them.”‘ (from the Talmud, Ta’anit 22a)

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Professional clown for over 25 years - happily married, with 5 children and 1 grandson