Angels and Souls. As we finish our discussion of this text (Lehavin Ma Shekasuv BiPri Eitz Chayim) we explore what Souls are; in light of the G-dliness of Davening, Torah, and Mitzvos. This discussion juxtaposes the Soul against Malachim (angels) who appear closer to G-d and G-dliness but are in fact limited absolutely. Souls on…

Mitzvos. After discussing Tefilla and Torah in the previous classes this class explores the ideas of Mitzvos. 1) Mitzvos are associated with the vessels, and as such have within themselves “the Essence”, 2) Since Mitzvos have a connection to the physical world, they interact with things that are in and of themselves not holy. The…

Torah is “From the top down” and is therefore perfect even as it is limited in this world. The difference between Chochmas Chitzoniyus (Secular Knowledge) and Torah. The Ohr Neshama is limited, but G-dly, and Torah (Chochma Ilaa) passes through it Bderech Maavir, while other Chochmos pass through Ohr Nefesh and Ruach, that are creations…

Tefilla. How we understand Davening in Kabalah. Two ideas: A. The Prayer that comes from the Essence of the person defies the order of worlds and has a changing effect that is visible even in the physical level. B. The reasonable prayer is very personal but (as a rule) can only be hasagas haMetzius (Seeing…

Introduction to this essay “Lehavin Ma Shekasuv biPri Eitz Chayim”. This essay will compare and contrast the mystical (and Chassidic) effects of our 1) Tefilla, 2) Mitzvos and 3) Torah study. The three will be thoroughly analyzed and the strengths and limitations of each will be explored. During the course of this essay we will…

The particulars of the first three Kunteres Acharons. An action with a 1) Negative Kavana, 2) No particular Kavana, 3) Positive Kavana, 4) Kavana without an action, 5) Everything (even sin) goes up somewhere.

The effects of our Yiddishkeit are felt on high. The ideal way to do a Mitzva is an action with a Kavana (Passion) from one of the four levels of Souls that are rooted in the four upper worlds. When one’s kavana or action are lacking- what happens then? This is the first of a…

The one who inspires Tzedaka is greater than the giver. There are also two levels of givers: 1) one who gives when asked, 2) one who is inspired on his own. The first is considered weak while the second is considered strong and in control of his s’char.

Jewish unity is Jewish health. Disunity is an illness (or a symptom of it). Since Golus was brought on by disunity, exile is called an illness. [Repairing the Sinas Chinum will heal the nation and bring the geula]. This lack of unity and the sickness it causes affects the whole world, including Goyim.

People who stood out in their good deeds must continue to do so. Continue with the Tzedaka they’d been giving until then. A Cheshbon of many small offerings adds up to Cheshban Gadol. Infinity!