Happy are the righteous! Not only do they acquire merit, but they bestow
merit upon their children and children's children to the end of all
generations, for Aaron had several sons who deserved to be burned like
Nadab and Abihu, but the merit of their father helped them. Woe unto the
wicked! Not alone that they render themselves guilty, but they bestow
guilt upon their children and children's children unto the end of all
generations. Many sons did Canaan have, who were worthy to be ordained
like Tabi, the slave of Rabbi Gamaliel, but the guilt of their ancestor
caused them [to lose their chance].
(The Talmud)
|