Why the Desire to Perform in Front of an Audience?
The Difference Between Positive and Negative Pride
- דניאל בלס
- פורסם כ"ד תשרי התשע"ו

#VALUE!
What does Judaism have to say about the concept of "stage fever"? That is, the desire some people have to perform in front of an audience. Is it positive or negative?
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Greetings and blessings,
Every trait has a negative side and a positive side.
The positive side is the nature to influence, to give. Therefore, Hashem created in certain people the desire to perform, so they could offer their wisdom and talent to the masses, thereby improving and enriching society.
The negative side, to be wary of, is the trait of pride. This is a challenging issue, as there are people who want to perform to gain honor and recognition, which stems from a desire to take and receive, sometimes at the expense of others. This is common in various gossip and inappropriate humor shows—aimed at gaining "ratings" through gossip and harming others. This stems from the urge of pride, which must be addressed.
More on negative pride versus positive pride in the lecture by Rabbi Zamir Cohen:
https://www.hidabroot.org/he/video/56864
Best wishes,
Daniel Bales