Exclusive: Watch The 'Act of Confidence' from the 'Tales of Rabbi Nachman' Film

Fishman explains that in 'Act of Confidence,' the king claims to have fewer worries than anyone else. He has wealth, great power, and is famous. Yet, inside he feels an empty void and lack of joy. Therefore, we see that he has worries, and despite having all 'the good things' in life, he doesn't possess the greatest treasure of all—joy. Through the events that occur in the story, Rabbi Nachman shows us that material security and honor are not the source of joy. The feeling of emptiness drives the king to leave his palace to search for what is missing in his life. He seeks the key that will fill the void in his heart and inner self. Through his encounters with the simple repairman, he discovers the secret of joy. He learns that the secret to joy and true completion comes with faith and trust in Hashem.

In contrast to the king, the repairman lives a simple life. Instead of a palace, he lives in a cave (in Rabbi Nachman's original story he lives in a dilapidated hut with a half-fallen roof, and the home is nearly underground). He works only to meet his basic needs. He is content with his portion, trusts in Hashem, and does not worry about the future at all. Unlike the king, who has great honor, treasures, and a famous name, the repairman is humble. He has no grandiose aspirations. If he faces a setback in life, or encounters a problem that needs solving, like when the king takes away his livelihood, the repairman does not worry or fall into despair. He adapts to the situation and seeks a solution with a positive outlook. He does not chase after honor and money but only seeks a few coins to buy his dinner. In this way, he remains happy and serves Hashem with joy.

This story also introduces the idea that to overcome personal issues (the king's void and sadness) the assistance of mentors or guides is essential to the process. In Rabbi Nachman's language, this is the role of the righteous.