The ever-buzzing, pestering, and relentless
fly symbolizes the Yetzer Hara. It sits by
the gates of the heart and advises it that repulsive sins are mitzvos, in the same way a
fly is attracted to rotten matter. Its foolish and worthless desires can mislead even the
wise, in the same way that a few insignificant flies can fall in and ruin the finest,
expensive perfumed oils. Hashem’s sole prescribed antidote for the Yetzer Hara is
Torah study, which clearly teaches right from wrong and purifies the mind. If it is
abandoned, the fly returns. As the fly hops pointlessly from surface to surface, it sings
that if one listens to the simlarly pointless Yetzer Hara, his accomplishments will be as
short-lasting as a “whithering sprout”. It conlcudes that the “word of Hashem” which
promises redemption will only materialize when we are engaged in the study of His
Torah, whose “speech brings healing”. Flies intrude everywhere, not letting us forget their song. Even good deeds are often
fueled by selfish intentions, and the only remedy is the study of the truth: Torah. One
who does not know the rules of the game cannot hope to win it. We need to open
windows for the Torah to enlighten our every day and guide our steps.