Chapter 7. The question of yedia (How can Hashem know something outside of himself). The Rambam’s resolution: He is the Know-er, the Knowledge, and the Known. This explains the unity of the Sfiros (explained in the last lesson); and on a (much) higher level it explains the position of Chassidus that the tzimtzum is not…

Interplay between the two souls: Man vs. Animal; Order vs. Infinity; Yosher vs. Igul; Gadlus vs. Katnus.

Chapter 6. Achdus based on the unity of the Kochos (faculties) employed in creation. In Kabbala the Sfiros aren’t outside of Him but simply His lights. Thus, there is a unity among the Kochos called “Ihu Vechayohi Chad”. as a result of this unity Elokim can’t truly conceal over Havaya.

Chapter 9. WAR between G-Dly and Animal Souls. Each wants total victory. Mind vs. Heart.

INTRODUCTION to the following chapters. Kabala- two basic ideas 1. Ein Sof light; or- G-Dliness. It is a reflection of Him that (at least in theory can be perceived by “other”). 2. Adam Haelyon or the ten Sfiros (faculties). Though they are distinctive and various they are in fact One, based on the idea of…

Chapter 10. TZADIK. Imperfect and perfect Tzadik. Imperfect Tzadik has personal (inner) struggle, Perfect Tzadik does not. Note: The next six lessons discuss Tzadik, Rasha and the (mind over heart) Beinoni.

Chapters 4-5. Divine concealment is as G-Dly as His infinite power to create. Two ideas: 1. G-Dly concealment allows the worlds to feel themselves separate from Him (and in a position to serve Him); 2. G-Dly concealment is the essence of G-Dliness. Even the holiest men can’t see through this concealment.

Chapter 11. RASHA. Incomplete Rasha has an awareness and conscience about Yiddishkeit; The perfect Rasha does not.

Chapters 3-4. The truth of creation is (only) the divine words that (individually) sustain each being. “If G-D would open our eyes we would see that reality is nothing other than the divine words that sustain all”. We are what we think we are because He hides.

Chapter 12, 13. BEINONI. Mind rules the heart has fluctuations: sometimes inspired; sometimes barely surviving. The life of the poor man, Constantly struggling, but he stays alive. Never sins , but it’s almost never easy. Except during Davening, when even the Beinoni is inspired.