Keeping away from all evil is dependent on fear of heaven. It is known that there are two types of fear. The first one is known as external fear, when one is scared of being punished in this world or the next. Although this category of fear is classified in the Zohar as “bad fear”, for he who has this fear is showing that he has no fear of G-d; he has only fear for himself, nevertheless this type of fear is actually good, for when one starts doing things for the wrong reasons one eventually ends up doing them for the right reasons. The pure fear of Hashem is, however, the awe of the exaltedness of Hashem (may He be blessed), for Hashem is great, and there is no number or end to His greatness and the completeness of His character traits and knowledge. It is not every man who merits this category of fear. It all depends on the level of his inspiration, his deeds and the consistency of his learning in seforim (holy books) which teach the knowledge and fear of Hashem.

Effort and consistency thereof is an extremely important integral part of any holy thing. It is well known, that the commandment to fear Hashem is one of the six hundred and thirteen commandments. It is an important commandment and also a constant one, for one fulfils the commandment to fear Hashem with every moment or second that one remembers to fear Hashem. This is one of the things for which a person has no excuse not to fulfil at any time, for at all times one has the ability to fulfil it. Whether one is sitting in the house, travelling on the way, occupying himself with his business or sitting in a shop, one should not waste one’s time. On the contrary, one should think pure thoughts. By doing this, he will fulfil the commandments, and Hashem will give him reward.

It is a good thing if he would become used to saying the verse “I keep Hashem facing me at all times” regularly. This commandment of fearing Hashem brings with it other benefits, as through it one is guarded from all bad things. Fortunate is the man who is constantly afraid that he might cause pain or anger to the high and exalted King, who is fearsome and awesome. One should be terrified and petrified, and therefore keep away from evil and perform good things in order to please his Creator.