interest in the unknown

In the vibrant city of Caracas, Venezuela, a country enriched culturally by the influx of European immigrants after World War II, lived a frugal Hebrew gentleman known for his savings habits. Over time, he decided to travel to Israel to strengthen family and cultural ties. However, before leaving, he wanted to ensure the protection of his assets.

Instead of going to his usual bank, he chose to visit the Central Bank of Venezuela with an unusual request. He was attended by the highest-ranking bank agent, due to his status as a distinguished client. The man, named Issac Chocrón - a name as common among Hebrews as Juan Pérez is among Spanish speakers - requested an official and meticulously documented loan. He insisted on leaving a valuable guarantee, which was to be stored in the bank's vault until he fully repaid the loan.

The agent's curiosity grew until the climax: the loan amount. To the agent's surprise, Chocrón only needed one dollar. Faced with the unusual request, the agent, confused but respectful, proceeded with the operation, assuming it might be part of an experiment or preliminary trial.

Upon completing the paperwork, Chocrón revealed his collateral: a luxurious Mercedes Benz car, an ironic detail considering its German origin. The bank accepted the vehicle and stored it in its vault.

Satisfied, Chocrón shared with his wife that he had found an extremely safe place for their vehicle during their trip to Israel.

The moral of the story, common in Hebrew wisdom, highlights that the origin and destination of money should never be revealed. This preserves the charm and curiosity that so attracts the inquisitive and pretentious. Thus, Chocrón achieved his personal goal by using the bank's complex mechanisms to his advantage, capitalizing on others' interest in the unknown.