Originally an oral tradition, ethical wills have been used by Jews for centuries to pass on lessons on life and on ethics such as the importance of charity. In the 11th century, ethical wills began to be written down, and some still exist in archives. Nowadays, ethical wills are non-binding documents that are increasingly seen as important legacy-building ingredients, say experts, because they can convey a person’s deep inner values and beliefs, even helping soothe ruffled feathers when dispensing family assets. Following the advent of information technology, it is natural for the ethical wills to take the electronic route. Technology lets you include video clips, sound bytes and even music. Shareable digital scrapbooks that are widely available are also interesting vehicles for ethical wills.
However, though high-tech ethical wills can be inviting, they aren’t for everyone. Writing is enduring and timeless. Conversely, high-tech wills can become outmoded. Ethical wills are meant to be long-lasting. But, whichever format is used, ethical will should not be used to blame or scold anyone by reaching out from beyond the grave, cautioned Barry Baines, author of Ethical Wills: Putting Your Values on Paper. “It should be a love letter from the heart so people can share who they are.”
The Jewish custom is reminiscent of the Indian traditions of sruti (listening) and smriti (remembering), which recall the passing on of knowledge based on memory before the invention of writing. However, the advice against using such customs for purposes other than the expression of love and affection is necessary because of the possibility that such primordial injunctions may be out of sync with modern times. It is better to regard them as a priceless heritage that can be preserved and admired but is inapplicable in the present age. Old may be gold, but what was suitable earlier is unlikely to be appropriate later on because of the changing norms and perceptions.
