We begin the Omer:
We bow before HaShem with these ancient words:
לְשֵם יִחוּד קֻדְשָׁא בְּרִיךְ הוּא וּשְׁכִינְתֵּיהּ בִּדְחִילוּ וּרְחִימוּ, וּרְחִימוּ וּדְחִילוּ, לְיַחֵד שֵׁם יוּ”ד הֵ”א בְּוָא”ו הֵ”א בְּיִחוּדָא שְׁלִים בְּשֵׁם כָּל יִשְׂרָאֵל.
"For the sake of the unification of the blessed Holy One, in reverence and compassion, and in love and awe, to unify the Name, the Yud-Hei with the Vav-Hei in perfect unity in the name of all Yisra'el."Behold, I am prepared and ready to perform the positive mitzvah of counting the Omer, as is written in your Torah: "You shall count from the eve of the second day of Pesach, when an omer of grain is to be brought as an offering, seven complete weeks. The day after the seventh week of your counting will make fifty days, and you shall present a new meal offering to G-d" (Leviticus 23:15-16).
וִיהִ֤י׀ נֹ֤עַם אֲדֹנָ֥י אֱלֹהֵ֗ינוּ עָ֫לֵ֥ינוּ וּמַעֲשֵׂ֣ה יָ֭דֵינוּ כּוֹנְנָ֥ה עָלֵ֑ינוּ וּֽמַעֲשֵׂ֥ה יָ֝דֵ֗ינוּ כּוֹנְנֵֽהוּ׃ תהילים צ:יז
" May the pleasantness of the Lord our G-d be upon us. May G-d establish the work of our hands, our work, may G-d establish."
בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵֽינוּ מֶֽלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָֽׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֺתָיו וְצִוָּֽנוּ עַל סְפִירַת הָעֹֽמֶר׃
Barukh ata Adonai Eloheinu Melekh ha’Olam asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tizivanu al sefirat ha’omer
Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe,
Who has sanctified us with His commandments and commanded us concerning the counting of the Omer.
יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶיךָ יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ וֵאלֹהֵי אֲבוֹתֵינוּ שֶׁיִּבָּנֶה בֵּית הַמִּקְדָּשׁ בִּמְהֵרָה בְיָמֵינוּ וְתֵן חֶלְקֵנוּ בְּתוֹרָתֶךָ׃
" May it be Your will, HaShem our G-d, G-d of our ancestors, that [Mashiach ben David come soon and then] the Beit HaMikdash be rebuilt speedily in our days, and may You grant us a portion in Your Torah."
Day 1. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day One: Chesed of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom yom e-chad ba-omer (or la-omer)
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
Today is one day of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
I look within myself and discover my inward love, which is a reflection of the Divine Love bestowed upon me by HaShem. In my observance of Sefirat HaOmer, I establish my intention (kavanah) to look deeply within myself during this period and to realize the Love of the Beloved within. With this insight, I am a conduit of Divine Love to all beings, especially those who are weak and defenseless, and to those with strength in Love to support them. I bestow Divine Love to the First Responders, who, in their courage, face uncertain dangers to assist those who need help. I spread Divine Love to all the unborn children whose mothers are contemplating taking their lives and to those mothers whose harsh realities drive them to consider such a horrible option. (Selah) And to the endangered, neglected, and abused animals. I send forth rays of Divine Love and support for all those who are hungry, homeless, and destitute. I pray to the Beloved that He manifest Mercy to our beleaguered planet and send HaMashiach now, during this period of the Omer Count, to deliver His People from our mostly self-inflicted wounds. May the Light of Chesed irradiate our world and cause the Luminous Fibers to vibrate with the Sacred vibration of Pay, Tzaddi, Pay, Tzaddi, Yud, Hay.
As Rebbe Nachman explained:
You must search for the good in yourself.
When you start looking deep within yourself, you may think there is no good in you at all. You may feel you are full of evil: a negative voice inside you may try to drive you into depression. But you must not allow yourself to fall into depression. Search until you find some little good in you. But how could it be that you never did anything good in your whole life?
When you start to examine the good you have done, you may see many flaws. Maybe you did what you did for the wrong reasons and with the wrong attitude. Even so, how could it be that your mitzvah or good deed contains no good at all? It must contain some element of good.
You must search and search until you find some good point within you to give you new life and happiness. When you discover the good that is still inside you, you literally swing the scales from guilt to merit and enable you to return to God. The positivity you find inside will give you new life and bring joy to your soul.
Having found one good point, you must continue searching until you find another. Even if you think this good point is also full of flaws, you must still search for some good in it. In the same way, you must continue finding more and more good points.
This is how songs are made! In essence, music is made by sifting the good from the bad. The musician must find the "good spirit" - the good air - and reject the bad. A musical instrument is a vessel containing air. The musician produces the sounds by causing the air to vibrate. His task is to move his hands on the instrument in such a way as to produce good spirit, "good vibrations", while avoiding the "bad vibrations" - the dissonant winds of gloom and depression.
When a person refuses to allow himself to fall into despair but instead vitalizes himself by seeking out and gathering together his positive points, this produces melodies, and he can then pray, sing and give thanks to God.
When a person recognizes the wrong he has done and how grossly materialistic and impure he is, he can become so depressed that he is incapable of praying. He simply cannot open his mouth to God. This is because of the deep sorrow and heaviness that overcome him when he sees his overwhelming distance from God.
But finding your good points can give you new life. Even if you know you have done wrong and caused damage and that you are far from God, you must search until you find the good that is still inside you. This will give you new life and make you truly happy. You are entitled to feel the most incredible joy over every good point you find in yourself because good energy comes from the holy soul within you. The new life and joy you will gain from this path will enable you to pray, sing and give thanks to God -- Likutey Moharan I, 282I embrace the Divine Love with thanksgiving. With the kavanah (intention) of bestowing loving-kindness upon myself and others, I allow love to flow through me to everyone I meet.
Practice: Perform selfless acts of loving kindness to at least one person every day this week.
Day 2. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Two: Gevurah of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is two days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day, I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
Love is more than a feeling. It is a consciousness that we must nurture through disciplined action and intention arising from a place of strength. Love must have limits and balance. It must be based on inward knowledge of what is and is not righteousness. When we conceive of the body of Adam Kadmon, Chesed and Gevurah are metaphorically the Soul's two arms. They work together to produce the desires of the heart.
It is through physicality that the Soul expresses its nature. Our true nature as the Children of the Holy One is Love. Yet we dwell in a realm where Love is often concealed. The Divine Love within us desires to express and receive Love. We must use the strength of Gevurah to hold firmly to our yetzer ha-tov (our positive inclinations) and to reject selfishness and our negative inclinations (i.e. yetzer ha-ra). Those walking Derech HaShem (the Way of G-d) employ one hand to give forth the Light of Love while using the other to strengthen the Soul and push away the Darkness. True Love requires relationships to be rooted in mutual respect. Otherwise, love becomes codependent and destructive. Where there is coercion or force, love becomes tainted. Where there is kindness and mutual respect, love blossoms and grows.
Practice: Participate in your relationships honestly. Through kind, disciplined actions enhance the joy and kindness you share with others and receive reciprocal love with gratitude to the Beloved.
Day 3. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Three: Tiferet of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’losha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is three days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
Tiferet reflects harmony and blending. This blending draws forth the innate beauty of Being. This blending of Divine Love (Chesed) with the Strength (gevura) of the will creates a beautiful reality in which the Love of the Beloved is actuated through us and contributes to Tikun Olam (the rectification and restoration of the world to its original purpose). Compassion is achieved as the Soul harmonizes its strength through love and balance. Where there is strong loving-kindness, there is harmony, beauty, and compassion. As we recite in our Shacharit prayers, HaShem declares (based on Hosea 2:21,22):
The Hebrew word "shalom" also refers to this balance of opposing forces. Through the power of emunah (active, complete faith in HaShem), balanced equanimity is attained, resulting in shalom: the cessation of conflicting impulses and desires. When our relationships are balanced, a sense of harmony naturally develops. This harmony enables us to see the beauty surrounding us. This beautiful state of consciousness produces compassion as one sees the inner beauty of all creation. This enlightenment furthers the expressions of loving-kindness and peace in an endless flowing forth of love. Love for one another and Love for our Beloved.I will betroth you to Me forever.
I will betroth you to Me.
through righteousness and justice,
through acts of loving kindness and compassion,
I will betroth you to Me in emunah,
and you will know Adonai.Practice: Make it your intention (kavanah) to achieve harmony with your family, friends, coworkers, and everyone who enters your circle of awareness. Continue to perform random acts of loving kindness to those you encounter, friend and foe alike. Embrace mutual respect and thereby, as much as is within your ability, determine to achieve Shalom.
Day 4. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Four: Netzach of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is four days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
As the emanation of Netzach (True Victory and Eternity) spreads its blessed influence within the sincere consciousness, we conceive of this emanation, along with Hod, as the "legs" of Adam Kadmon. The three previous Saphirot desire to know and manifest True Divine Love inwardly. Through their influences, the soul is empowered to experience Love and harmonize and strengthen our Souls therein. How can this inward harmony be shared outwardly to include others? This is where Netzach (and Hod) come in. As the consciousness expands through the active power of Emunah and Love (through Chesed, Gevurah, and Tiferet), the Soul 'receives legs,' enabling it to 'move' and further its goals of expanding loving-kindness for the rectification of material existence.
Divine Love is beyond conception. During hitbodedut (secluded, private prayer) and other periods, the soul becomes overwhelmed by the Divine Presence of the Beloved to the degree that the conditioned soul can contain. In our ecstasy, the Soul is unchained and may sing, weep, dance, or laugh in the bliss of the Divine Presence. Due to the realities of material existence, the inward reflection of the Divine Presence is concealed within the individual consciousness. This awareness remains hidden from those who are unprepared to receive it. Netzach and Hod focus Divine Light in practical and directed ways for the soul's tikkun or correction. Fully utilized, Netzach (and Hod) bring a balanced end to all negativity and reveal the Presence of the Beloved.
Love should not be overpowering. It should be balanced and pleasant for both parties. Those who only love when it is convenient have not experienced true love. Those whose love is excessive or 'creepy' have not found the needed balance of Netzach (and Hod). Love comes in innumerable forms, and one must respect the differences. There is the love of one's spouse, children, and parents. There is a love of nature, animals, friends, and love of life (L'Chaim!). However, the highest love is our Love for the Beloved. Higher yet is His Love for us. All forms of love require endurance and commitment. True love burns bright even during the darkest hours. True Love arises from the Divine Soul within.
It is said that the gift of prophecy arises from Netzach and Hod because the revelation of G-d's Light and Truth must be diffused to be embraced. The prophets received the Light of Truth, and most would be unable to bear it, and so the Divine Word is 'distilled' and revealed so that what may be known becomes known while that that may not remains concealed.
Practice: Determine the quality of your love. Can others depend on the strength of your love? Does your love endure through difficult times? Is your love balanced and stable? Is your love of G-d such that the Beloved responds to it? Determine to manifest the enduring love you hope to receive.
Day 5. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Five: Hod of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer. (Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
Ha-yom chami-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is five days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day, I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
Hod (Splendor) works with Netzach (Victory), as we discussed yesterday. Hod aligns with Netzach through the power of awe and amazement at the achieved victory of Divine Love. Hod opens the Soul so that it admits or realizes its nature as a servant of the Holy One. As the Soul realizes the Strength of Divine Love and Kindness dwelling within, the Self is filled with awe and humility, realizing our complete dependence on HaShem alone. The Soul realizes that we are and have nothing without the Beloved, yet we have everything with Him! His Mercy and Love provide everything we have, everything we are, everything we need, and so we say "Baruch HaShem!" Blessed is the Beloved! This realization draws us with awe toward ever-greater attachment with the Beloved, Who alone is praiseworthy. This attachment is called devekut. As one attaches to HaShem, their consciousness is purified and filled with His Divine Presence. The Soul then experiences true and sustaining Love and Joy beyond understanding. As we "own" this realization in humility, the soul is elevated and begins to manifest the glory of Divine Love and Light outward, even to the point of Holy Fire, as witnessed in Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, as we celebrate on Lag B'Omer.
Practice: Invest time in positive introspective hitbodedut. Identify the good within you and search for its origins to strengthen that good. Follow the stream of goodness back to its Source, the Beloved, giving Him all thanks and honor. With humility and awe, share His Divine Love with everyone you meet, ever-expanding that Love within you. Not as a missionary, G-d forbid, but as a fountain of sweet flowing waters.
Day 6. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Six: Yesod of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shi-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is six days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
Yesod is "foundation" and when it intersects with Chesed (Love), we bring our expanded consciousness of Love (with focused strength and beauty), affirming Divine Love to be the foundation (Yesod) of all life. On the Tree of Adam Kadmon, Yesod sits as the foundation upon which Netzach and Hod stand. Without the stabilizing influence of Yesod, the "legs" (i.e., Netzach and Hod) would not be firm, causing our Love to falter. Ponder what has been shared for the past five days. Have you allowed loving-kindness to find a permanent place within your Soul? Have you manifested this love to others? Consider how the expressing and receiving of love makes you feel. Do you share this joy through thanksgiving to HaShem, or do you hold it to yourself? Baruch HaShem for this Love because Joy is a wondrous gift of the Beloved. Have you disciplined your willpower to express true love and kindness to others? Have you established harmony with others due to your efforts toward receiving and expressing loving-kindness? Have you determined to maintain these qualities based on the Divine Love you have discovered within yourself? Is your Love for the Beloved the foundation upon which you stand with firm emunah?
From Meshivat Nefesh #27
I remember being told when I was young that it wasn’t good to be stubborn, that’s it’s a character flaw. But Rebbe Nachman taught that, when it comes to Divine service, sometimes you have to be a “big akshan”—really stubborn.So, instead of thinking of it as stubbornness, maybe it’s better to think of it as persistence, tenacity, firmness, or resolve. Whatever I choose to call it, I’m going to need to have that capacity within me because the life of the spirit is filled with natural ups and downs. And during the downs, I need to be able to stand firm and stick to my principles; no matter what -- I'm going to need to be a big akshan!
Everlasting God,
Please fill me with the positive persistence
that I need to follow the spiritual path that I set for myself.
Good intentions are not enough to see me through,
and sometimes the obstacles that I face are enough
to make me want to give up.
Please strengthen my resolve
and help me to stand firm,
when firmness is needed.
(Based on Likutey Moharan II:48)Practice: Bond with the good qualities you have discovered within yourself and allow these to flow outward from you to others. Make the gift of love a determined part of your daily life. Through this flowing forth of your Love, manifest Divine Love to yourself and everyone you contact. In this way, you will attach ever more completely with the Holy One and spread His Loving Kindness to others to assist in rectifying the world.
Day 7. Week One: Chesed: Loving Kindness
Day Seven: Malchut of ChesedBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shiv-a yamim, shehaym
shavu-a e-chad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is seven days,
which are one week of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of LOVE.
As we arrive at Day Seven of the Omer, Malchut, we attain the position of Sovereignty or Rulership. Having performed our intentional soul work in personal, loving-kindness this week to identify the Divine Love within, we have attained greater insight and self-control. With our growing sense of humility and gratitude to HaShem, we have begun to spread Divine Love outward to other beings. With the dawning of day seven of the omer, it is time to become the master or controller of that Love. In other words, having achieved this new level of loving-kindness, we make it our goal to help others increase their love by blessing them with our loving-kindness as an example.
Seven is the most powerful number in Jewish gematria (i.e., the mystical method of interpreting the Hebrew Scriptures by computing the numeric value of words based on their constituent Hebrew letters). We conclude our week-long consideration of Divine Love and its composite emanations on day seven. With Malchut, we contemplate the power and potentiality of Chesed and accept the responsibility of properly utilizing this great emanation. Omer count seven emanates much of this power.
The seven lower sefirot we meditate upon during the Omer count leads our souls to ever greater devekut (attachment to the Beloved). The number seven brings good fortune. For example, a Hebrew word for luck, gad, equals seven in gematria and the word for luck, mazal, equals 77. Religious groupings by seven include dividing terrestrial time into seven days, with the seventh day, the Sabbath, holding special holiness. Through HaShabbat, we temporarily transcend the material world and dwell in the Olam Haba. The Seven Universal or Noahide Laws govern human morality. Through the Seven Patriarchs and Matriarchs, the Nation of Israel arose and is sustained. Priestly ordination takes seven days, as do many traditional Jewish holidays. The Land of Israel is to rest every seven years as the seven-branched menorah burns bright in the Temple of HaShem. Number Seven holds many secrets.
Practice: Determine to be a master of loving-kindness. Whatever difficulties arise, whenever someone in your sphere of influence needs love, an act of kindness, or help of any type, whether spiritual or material, don't wait for someone else to provide it. Consider it your responsibility to make things better through your loving kindness. Perhaps you came into this life for this very purpose (Esther 4:14)! Loving Kindness service is key to living a life of tikun olam, a life dedicated to addressing and repairing the brokenness HaShem brings into our awareness.
Day 8. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day One: Chesed of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’mona yamim, shehaym
shavu-a e-chad v’yom e-chad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is eight days, which are
one week and one day of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
As discussed on day one of the count, the first of the Omer Sevens, Chesed (Love) and Gevura (Judgement), are both required if one is to serve the Beloved and our fellow beings properly. May it be it our intention to achieve this balance.
HaShem is fully aware of all things past, present, and future. Indeed He transcends the very concept of time. The Beloved One exists in the eternal now. His Judgments are revealed according to our deeds and our best interests. Were we to be judged according to His righteousness alone, no one would be able to come into His presence nor to merit His blessings. This is so because, as the Scripture says, " none are righteous, no, not one." This is stated in Ecclesiastes 7:20.
For those with emunah, there is no question of G-d's Power and Strength, but we would be hopelessly lost without His Loving Kindness. Of course, knowing all things, the Beloved also knows this. Creating us without a solution would have been cruel, and the Beloved is not cruel. Our Sages explain that in the Torah the Name Elohim is given as a Title of His Divine Judgment of material existence. This title is used throughout the Creation account, where the title " God" appears in the English translations. Every human culture has affirmed the existence of Elohim, which is to say, they all acknowledge the existence of a god or gods, however, perceived. In the vast majority of cases, these gods are presented as fearsome, wrathful beings or powers, devoid of mercy or loving-kindness.
To the Hebrews was revealed a record reaching back to the dawn of material Creation. This record proclaims a G-d of both Judgement and Loving Kindness. However, at the beginning of the Torah, we only find reference to Elohim or "God" in a more general sense as accepted by all the nations. Biblically we must wait for the coming of Moshe Rabbeinu for the revelation of the Holy One as Loving Kindness as well as Judgement. It is through Moshe that we learn of the Sacred Name of Four Letters (Exodus 6:3 etc). Through the Sacred Name, the Beloved reveals Divine Loving-Kindness towards His creation, and through the Jewish people have their origins. We refer to the Tetragrammaton as "HaShem," a title meaning "The Name" because uttering the Sacred Name is not permitted due to our respect for the Named One.
As discussed during week one, we are taught to moderate our judgments through love and compassion, even as does HaShem. At the same time, however, HaShem's Love does not negate divine justice. He holds people directly accountable for the choices we make. Some people are filled with love and kindness but lack the proper judgment and discipline. They accept whatever comes their way and accept the position of 'door mat' under the feet of the wicked. While Judgement and Vengeance are the Lord's, self-determination falls to us (Deuteronomy 32:35). HaShem advises us to " Choose life that we might life" (Deuteronomy 30:19). We can determine when to stand and when to wait through emunah and hitbodedut (active faith and prayer) (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8).
We must balance our inner love and openness with what is right and true. We must make righteous judgments and have the courage and the strength to resist the evils of our time. Sometimes our love must be 'tough.' We must have the courage and conviction to reject the so-called political correctness of assimilation. Sometimes it is best to withhold action for a time with kindness. In both cases, our emunah should be in HaShem alone. Altruism is wonderful; however, it must be reciprocal for love and respect to endure life's trials. Showing undue respect to those who disrespect us is destructive and merely empowers those who hate us. Each situation in life is unique and must be handled individually with an effective blending of Chesed and Gevurah. With a desire to truly bless, such self-discipline leads to real and lasting results.
Practice: Express the strength of your loving-kindness in situations that require you to make difficult judgment calls. Do not stand idly by in the face of Antisemitism and other injustices. Evaluate such situations and determine to stand when appropriate without fear of what others think or say. Bow before no human being, only before HaShem.
Day 9. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Two: Gevurah of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom tish-a yamim, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
shavu-a e-chad ushnay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is nine days, which are
one week and two days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
Our discipline must be balanced. There are those whose self-discipline is extreme. Such people seldom experience the incredible joy intended for us by the Beloved. These people do nothing without carefully considering every minutia of Halacha and halachic opinion. They harshly judge others who fail to meet their standards of perfection. Such people provide no place in their lives for spontaneity, humor, beauty, or art, and they are critical of its presence in others. For such people, everything is rigid and legalistic. They appear not to understand that despite their alleged piety, the foundational story of our people is our passage from Mitzraim (i.e., slavery in Egypt) to the freedom of Har Sinai and Torah. This freedom is integral to Derech HaShem ("the Way of G-d"). Too often, we find those claiming to be close to G-d are among the farthest from Him! Of this Rebbe Nachman of Breslov tells us:
The main reason people are far from God is that their minds are not settled, and they do not pause to consider the purpose of their existence. But when a person is happy, his mind becomes settled, and he can understand things clearly. Someone anxious and depressed [in his observance] finds it impossible to direct his thoughts where he wants. It is hard for him to calm down and settle his mind. Only a happy person can control his thoughts wherever he wants and relax his mind. Joy is the world of freedom, "for you shall go out with joy" (Isaiah 55:12). Through joy, we become free and leave our exile. When a person maintains a happy, joyous attitude, his mind and thoughts become free. He is no longer in exile. He can then direct his thoughts as he wants and settle his mind to focus on his goal and draw close to God -- Likutey Moharan II, 10.It is written:
The house of the wicked shall be destroyed, but the tent of the righteous shall flourish. There is a derech [way] that seems right to a person, but its end is ways of death. Even with laughter, the heartaches, and its end is that joy turns to sorrow. The one with an impure heart shall have his fill from his ways, but above him is a good man. A fool believes everything, but a cunning man understands his steps. Derech HaShem requires balanced Judgement. Each person must build their own house. This requires the discipline to pursue justice brick by brick consistently. A wise person fears and turns away from evil, but a fool passes on vigorously and slips -- Proverbs 14:11,16.Practice: Determine to be dedicated to Justice and living a just life more than properly practicing religion and gaining the respect of others through it. By constant disciplined actions, based on Beloved's Love and that of your fellows, develop true Justice, both for yourself and others.
Day 10. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Three: Tiferet of Gevurah
Baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom asara yamim, shehaym
shavu-a echad ushlosha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is ten days, which are
one week and three days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
As any artist knows, discipline is required when expressing one's soul into external reality. The proper cord must be struck; the brushstroke must just so if one wants the desired result. What the Soul most desires is this sense is beauty. Drawing out the beauty and compassion of one's Soul requires self-discipline and inward strength, just as Divine Justice must be tempered with Compassion. Beauty can overwhelm a person with guilt and doubt without disciple and judgment, for truly no one can stand before the Holy One without His causeless Mercy. In the same way, with disciplined compassion, one's inner beauty is strengthened and harmonized with one's community, and then, collectively, the Divine Beauty shines forth.
Practice: Consider a wrong that has entered into your awareness. What led to the wrong? Was it fear? Some misunderstanding? Was it because of Greed or Selfishness? From within the beautiful storehouse of your Soul, activate your compassion, realizing that a lack of emunah leads to all personal shortcomings. Rather than judging the offending party harshly, manifest compassion, and if possible, help the person find their inner peace and beauty.
Day 11. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Four: Netzach of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom achad asar yom, shehaym
shavu-a echad v’arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is eleven days, which are
one week and four days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
Netzach is the power or tenacious strength of Victory. It establishes the sure Victory of HaShem and His will. Hence we read at I Shmuel 15:28,29
And Shmuel said to him, "HaShem has torn the kingdom of Israel from you, today; and has given it to your fellow who is better than you.When Netzach is present in one's consciousness, success is assured. How so? The answer is secreted in these verses. The Emanation of Divine Victory comes when the Soul is in harmony with HaShem, as described in these discussions. HaShem removes the powers of slavery from us and bestows His freedom. Our King will never speak and not fulfill His Word; He is not a man, not a mortal being. He does not lie. The Soul that is harmonious with HaShem acts according to His Word. His Word never fails. Maintaining the constancy of harmony requires discipline. Netzach is the "right foot" of Adam Kadman. It, along with Hod, enables one to stand firmly.
And also, the Netzach of Israel will neither lie nor repent, for He is not a man to repent."Sometimes, discipline is not easy to maintain. The yetzer hara seeks to convince us that we waste our time and energy denying it. From this source arises doubt and depression. It is often precisely at such times that we confront key turning points in our lives. With disciplined emunah one merits elevation to the next level. Without emunah one misses the opportunities HaShem places before us.
Practice: Determine the Divine Will for you with your best judgement. Do this through Torah study and hitbodedut. Apply your disciplined strength and endurance, with emunah, and achieve your goals confident that HaShem never fails and in Him neither do we.
Day 12. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Five: Hod of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
Ha-yom sh’naym asar yom, shehaym
shavu-a echad vachami-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twelve days, which are
one week and five days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
Hod is the "left foot" of Adam Kadmon. With Netzach, Hod establishes stability, the ability to stand on one's own two feet, as it were, and walk forward along the derech (path). When making judgments, the firmly established Lover of G-d will mix Justice (Gevurah) with loving-kindness and Compassion (Chesed) by the strength of emunah. One whose intention is grounded in the Love of G-d can move wherever Goodness manifests and draws him. The power of Hod and Netzach enables this. While Netzach is inclined to conquer obstacles by force aggressively, Hod conquers by subtle means. Hod is like the waters of a river. It remains within its banks, always advancing by following its natural course. Of course, like water, Hod is quite powerful and, by its subtle constancy, alters the course of that which contains it. In the same way, HaShem revealed His Torah to us, assuring us that it is not too hard, that we can do it (Deuteronomy 30:11). Yet knowing we would fail to keep it, HaShem also provided us with the option of teshuvah (repentance and course correction). If we, like Hod, continue forward undaunted, our objectives will be achieved through consistency, emunah, and balance.
Considering HaShem's undeserved compassion for us, how can we fail to feel empathy for others? Hod is the Majesty and Glory of HaShem. We, as His Children, are granted freedom. Freedom is the essence of the Exodus! Slavery in Mitzraim to the Freedom of Har Sinai and the Torah. We may 'leave the derech,' which is to say, go off course from time to time into negative places, but in the end, the water always reaches the sea, and the Jewish Soul always returns to HaShem eventually (Exodus 34:7), and, as we are told in Pirkei Avot:
"כל ישראל יש להם חלק לעלם הבא"
"Kol Yisrael yeish lahem cheilek le'Olam Haba"
"All Israel have a share in the World to Come..."The word "kol" (כל) is an abbreviation for "Kohen" (כהן) and "Levi" (לוי). Hence, as we recite in our Siddur, the Mishnah assures us that "kol Yisrael" — "all Kohen, Levi and Yisrael" — i.e., all Jews, regardless of their status have a share in the World to Come.
Knowing this, granting Compassion to others who are off the derech by our estimations brings glory to HaShem, satisfies our Souls, and helps bolster the Unity of the Redeemed People.
Practice: Do not fear! Keep 'flowing' or 'walking' the unique Path (Derech) granted to you by HaShem. Do this with compassion for yourself and everyone else, and you are certain to achieve the Sea of His Love.
Day 13. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Six: Yesod of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’losha asar yom, shehaym
shavu-a echad v’shisha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirteen days, which are
one week and six days of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day, I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
Discipline is essential in all things. Without it, one will not pursue the means required to attain the goal. The ultimate goal of those who love HaShem is tikkun olam, repairing all that is damaged. This work requires love, compassion, justice, mercy, and dedication. Understanding that each situation is unique, one must use discipline to bring forth the best methods for achieving one's holy goals. This discipline must be embraced with joy, not from a sense of guilt or duty because joy manifests the love HaShem has for His people.
Practice: Consider a situation in your life in which a brokenness needs to be repaired. Determine the steps you can take to rectify the situation. Can you perform this service with a smiling face, understanding the blessing HaShem offers you? Then do it! If not, invest more time in self-evaluation until you find this joy within yourself.
Day 14. Week Two: Gevurah: Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline
Day Seven: Malchut of GevurahBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom arba-a asar yom, shehaym
sh’nay shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is fourteen days, which are
two weeks of the OmerKavanah: This week and this day I will focus on the divine attribute of Justice and Judgement leading to Discipline.
Welcome to the 14th day of the omer count. Today is the day of two Sevens and two full weeks of Seven days. We developed our love of HaShem and our loving-kindness among and towards all people in week one. In week two, we developed the discipline, through the right judgment, to persevere and the proper timing to achieve our goals with balance and compassion. We finalize these qualities with Malchut of Gevurah and establish them as our foundational moral and ethical behavior. We now have a solid platform to stand firmly upon as we determine to live in this mortal world as Masters of Justice, Compassion, and Love. With humility and emunah in HaShem, we seek to judge every situation with pure Torah-based judgment established upon Emunah. Being firmly established, we have no fear. Viewing all people and situations fairly, we pursue our dreams of Tikkun Olam, the rectification of our word to the Sovereign Will of HaShem Yitborach (HaShem, the Blessed Name).
Practice: Examine your life to confirm and re-commit yourself to a life of Loving Kindness and Justice with Compassion. Correctly determine the most effective way to do your work of tikun olam or soul correction, both for yourself and all those HaShem brings into your sphere of influence. Manifest the inner certainty of His Might and Love by spreading those qualities with everyone the Beloved places in your presence.
Day 15. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day One: Chesed of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom chami-sha asar yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot v’yom echad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is fifteen days, which are
two weeks and one day of the OmerKavanah: "The Sixth Sefirah, Tiferet, is the adorned, glorious, and ever-delightful Throne Room of the Most High in manifestation among the lower emanations or realms. Tiferet represents the ideal balance of Justice and Mercy needed for the proper maintenance of the universe. The 'House' of the World to Come is established from the beauty of this balance. The Perfected Community achieves its perfection as Tiferet is engraved with Wisdom, the beautiful Light of G-d. As is written, " The G-d of gods said: Let there be light, and there was light." The portal or entrance to the Palace of G-d is Chesed and Gevurah. Those whose consciousness is filled with the Light of Divine Love and who are well Disciplined through their commitment to Justice merit to dwell in the Palace of the Most High, the Olam Haba or World to Come. Such people dwell in this elevated consciousness even now, within the Olam Hazeh, our present darkened terrestrial reality. This is because such souls see the world as it truly is, as a place filled with Loving-kindness and Justice, tempered with Compassion, from on High. Such blessed people are clothed with divine love and adorned with the Light of the Beloved.
Practice: Elevate your consciousness and see the world as it truly is through the eyes of emunah. In hitbodedut (private personal prayer), allow your fears and concerns to fade away in the beauty of Divine Love. Breath deeply and think of HaShem and His Mercy. Quietly but audibly ask Him to reveal Himself to you, to show you the world through the eyes of emunah. With your mind bathed in His Light and Love, open your inner eyes and know the Truth! Know that there is only Shalom, Peace: There is only HaShem. Know that everything else is but fleeting opportunities to be utilized for the reparation of your soul and our world.
When doing hitbodedut, the experience of shalom may fade quickly. This is normal. Don't place your emunah in transitory feelings. Trust in HaShem alone. Remain calm, with your mind at peace, savoring the Presence of Beloved. Day by day, as time permits, devote time to hitbodedut, to private communion with the, and allow your consciousness to open to the perception of His delightful Presence. As time passes
Day 16. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Two: Gevurah of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom shi-sha asar yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot ushnay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is sixteen days, which are
two weeks and two days of the OmerKavanah: Gevurah is also known as Din in some systems. As Din, coupled with Tiferet, we find the Judgement of Beauty. Compassion can be wonderful; however, it can also be negative when it creates codependency and a lack of self-responsibility. The Soul must see things as they truly are, not as we might like them to be. While Beauty is alluring, true compassion must be balanced with reality. We have all heard stories of the beauty who seduces only to consume the deceived. This combination requires that one not allow compassion to override judgment. Express balanced appreciation when seeking harmony lest one becomes unsettled and carried away with vain emotions devoid of good judgment.
Practice: Consider a situation that sparks your natural compassion and rationally consider the best way to address it. Do not allow yourself to be impacted by false beauty. Determine the truth of the situation and how to best respond with the Beauty of Justice.
Day 17. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Three: Tiferet of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom shiva asar yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot ushlosha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is seventeen days, which are
two weeks and three days of the OmerKavanah: With strong Loving Kindness, the Light of HaShem adorns the Soul with disciplined Compassion. When confronting any issue, such a person will react with Compassion for the well-being of others. Rather than pursue one's desires with anger, jealousy, greed, or other negative emotions, such a person, firmly established in emunah, will demonstrate Compassion.
Practice: Allow the Beauty of your Compassion to shine forth in situations you previously avoided or handled negatively. Determine to express the Light of HaShem to those He brings into your awareness, understanding that HaShem guides your every step, offering a means for continual spiritual progress. By demonstrating human compassion, one attains Divine Compassion.
Day 18. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Four: Netzach of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom shemonah asar yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot v’arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is eighteen days, which are
two weeks and four days of the OmerKavanah: To truly comprehend the Beauty of Compassion, Tiferet must be ever-present within one's consciousness. Ask anyone who lives in a lovely area if they are always mindful of their glorious surroundings. Often as not, the answer will be no. We tend to become accustomed to our surroundings and take them for granted. It is important to pause and take the time to appreciate Beauty and to give thanks to HaShem for it. This appreciation must be consistent to be meaningful. In the same way, the spiritual consciousness achieve in Chassidut corresponding to the sefirah of Netzach. When Netzach is active within one's consciousness, it produces bitachon (confidence) in HaShem Goodness and His Glory. Then one experiences the Beauty as if for the very first time. This brings Victory (Netzach) through Compassion (Tiferet). This combination defeats one's fleeting doubts by instilling dependability and endurance. Through the power of the enlightened Soul, unpredictable and sporadic false compassion is defeated along with so many needless woes and uncertainties. One who masters consistent, enduring compassion utilizes the inward Beauty and establishes harmony and shalom when it is within their ability. When peace and balance are not possible, when it is necessary to fight, absorbed in Devekut, one acts decisively and speedily to make further attacks impossible. This is done with compassion and the determination to restore the peace as soon and effectively as possible, remembering that for everything, there is a season as taught by Shlomo HaMelech at Ecclesiastes 3:1-8:
Everything has an appointed season, and there is a time for every matter under the heavens.
A time to give birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot that which is planted.
A time to kill and a time to heal, a time to break and a time to build.
A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time of wailing and a time of dancing.
A time to cast stones and a time to gather stones; a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing.
A time to seek and a time to lose, a time to keep and a time to cast away.
A time to rend and a time to sew; a time to be silent and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.Practice: Be careful to maintain balanced Compassion despite outward realities. The secret to enduring compassion is realizing three essential points: 1). Everything comes from HaShem; 2). Everything, the seemingly positive and the seemingly negative, happens for our benefit as opportunities for soul corrections; 3). By applying this understanding, one will be sure to utilize everything, both the positive and the negative, for greater devekut (attachment to HaShem) and tikun olam (repairing all that is broken). Act with determined wisdom and understanding to enhance that which is beautiful.
Day19. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Five: Hod of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom tisha asar yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot va’chamisha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is nineteen days, which are
two weeks and five days of the OmerKavanah: It is a true gift of G-d to be able to help another, to practice tikun olam. Understand that everything we have comes from HaShem alone. The Beloved provides our every need in diverse ways. When we are blessed to help others, only HaShem uses us to express His Compassion for His creation. Being able to help another is, therefore, a beautiful gift. Arrogance and taking credit for our good deeds destroys true compassion and steals glory from HaShem! On the other hand, humility and realizing that everything is the Work of HaShem, which is the proper and balanced perspective, gives rise to true Compassion. Yes, we may have earned this blessing, but it was only by His Mercy. Rambam, therefore, recommends that acts of loving-kindness are best performed in secret. This way, HaShem will reward us liberally without enraging our yetzer hara.
One should not feel superior because of one's ability to give. Rather, our Tradition understands that our situations may change, and our fortunes may reverse at any moment. One who is wealthy today may be a pauper tomorrow, and the poor today may be rich tomorrow. In either situation, we should say " Baruch HaShem." Thank G-d that I can bless the one who needs it, and thank G-d that through accepting charity, I can bless the one who gives to me. Truly all things come from HaShem alone. Blessed and praised is His Name.
Hod (Splendor) and Netzach (Victory) combine as two legs to carry the Soul forward to success. As one embraces the influences of these two emanations, the Beloved becomes known to the Soul as Adonai Tsva’ot (Master of Legions) and as Elohim Tsva’ot (G-d of Legions). These Names are not found in the Torah. They appear only in the Prophets about the appearance of HaShem in the lower realms. From here in our lowliness, prophecy arises as the conditioned soul attaches to the Beloved. HaShem is our Protector and our Guide through all realms and ages. As Elohim Tsva’ot He is also the Protector of those who do not know him. Elohim is conceived as the G-d over all so-called gods for those who acknowledge but do not know Him. No matter our current state, the Beloved is there, beckoning us to Devekut! Truly there is none like our Beloved, Adon HaOlam!
Practice: Show Compassion for those in need regardless of their present state, understanding that all credit and all glory belongs to HaShem alone. Consider how He has bestowed His causeless blessings upon you and that through them, you have been enabled and blessed to perform your service to others, thus enabling you to advance tikkun olam, the rectification of the present global order and thereby to draw ever closer to Da'at, to Knowing the Beloved..
Day20. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Six: Yesod of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
sh’nay shavuot v’shi-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty days, which are
two weeks and six days of the OmerKavanah: Yesod signifies tzelem Elokim, the procreative organ in the male; in the female, and also of the womb. In other words, the fountain from which all life flows. Yesod represents the elevated Soul, the Tzadik, who is described as the " the foundation of the world."
Consider our foundational story of Joseph. He recognized the greatness of his brothers. He judged them positively, as befits a Tzadik Due to their perceived righteousness, Joseph assumed they were aware of his higher spiritual level and would rejoice in that knowledge rather than heeding their yetzer hara. However, they failed to recognize him for who he was and hence were overcome by their selfish natures. As we discussed yesterday, Hod (Splendor) and Netzach (Victory) are likened to the two legs that carry Adam Kadmon. When these attributes are severed due to a lack of emunah and righteousness Yesod's sexuality is misused and misdirected, and the fountain becomes unclean. As Joseph realized the truth, he felt they were acting as "severed limbs." They were guilty of separating themselves from their generation's living and true Tzadik, who was that period's fountainhead and life force. Our sages say that the brothers were guilty – in a spiritual sense – of "eating of a limb severed from a live animal."
If one applies compassion in a disconnected way, one's effort will be wasted. As the Children of G-d, we are of one race and family, the human race and the human family. We are all connected in innumerable and mysterious ways to one another. Our compassion should reflect this inconceivable connection by uniting our souls with those we would help, brother to brother and sister to sister. Even our compassion for the animals should be species to species because all life comes from HaShem, the One Creator. All life exists to bring praises to Him and Unity to His Name.
Practice: Do not invoke your compassion as a royal to a subject, but rather as a human touching other humans, as a created being responding to other created beings according to the blessings and guidance of HaShem. At the same time, honor your teachers and all tzadikim, praying for them often, understanding that the Mercy and Compassion of HaShem towards our beleaguered planet depends on their righteousness, as a sacred minion in the Presence of the Beloved.
Day 21. Week Three: Tiferet: Adornment, Harmony, Beauty, Compassion
Day Seven: Malchut of TiferetBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Hayom e-chad v’esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
shlosha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-one days, which are
three weeks of the OmerKavanah: Three Sevens (equally 21) are now complete in our count. This level of achievement holds considerable significance for the Soul in its quest for Devekut or Attachment with the Beloved. Three represents Saphirot Binah, from which flows Understanding and the power of Love. With Saphirot Malchut, the Foundation or Kingdom is established. Hence, we conceive the restoration of Yerushalayim (both spiritually and physically) under HaMashiach ben David's reign. Malchut is the source of all healing righteousness. Tiferet speaks of the Adornment of the Beloved and of the perfect symmetry experienced by those who consciously dwell in His Sacred Presence (via Devekut or Attachment).
United at this point in our meditation, the Soul has come to taste the Harmony and Beauty of Adonai Tsva’ot (the " Master of Legions") and Elohim Tsva’ot (the " G-d of Legions") though Hod (Splendor) and Netzach (Victory) as discussed on Day 19 of the count. Now firmly established in this Unity, the Soul's relationship with the Holy One is realized through the Foundation of Balance and Compassion and wise and accurate Judgement. The Soul now senses the Security and Stability of Divine Love and Beauty. From the Fountain of this inward, Love the Soul wisely and with good Judgement (or discretion) manifests the Divine Compassion outward to the world. In this way, the accomplished Soul plays its rightful role in the greater Tikkun Olam, the ratification of the world.
In this week's Omer practices, we have solidified and established the Beauty and Compassion of Harmony with all Life. With having achieved Discipline and Balanced Loving Kindness. We have reached out to the world with Love and Compassion, based on Justice and good Judgement. Firmly established within this consciousness, we are empowered to practice tikkun olam expertly. We also remember that the Soul operates amidst the " Four Worlds." Here in Assiah, the world or realm of our waking experiences, we understand that there are flaws and imperfections as decreed by the Beloved that such things are needful. Therefore, we do not allow these flaws to overwhelm us; instead, with this solid Foundation, the Soul embraces its divine work in balanced ways, never allowing the Perfect to defeat the Good.
Practice: Consider your local area and beyond. Instead of focusing on the various problems with a defeatist attitude, with the eyes of emunah, see the many opportunities HaShem is placing before you for your tikun or soul correction! Praise Him for the wonderful opportunities! Know that every setback is a Divine opportunity for growth. With this insight, decide how you can best manifest Loving Kindness to repair the brokenness HaShem draws to your attention, both within yourself and without. Develop a concrete plan to help address that brokenness and bring the Light of G-d's Love into the situation with balanced, well reasoned, Compassion.
Day 22. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day One: Chesed of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom sh’nayim v’esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
shelosha shavuot v’yom echad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-two days, which are
three weeks and one day of the OmerKavanah: We usually prefer things to be linear and easy to follow, but often this is not the case. Indeed things are seldom so clear cut as might prefer. We must ask ourselves: As I enter into week four of the Omer count have I truly incorporated the wisdom I have been offered so that I am fully prepared for week four's instructions? If we are honest with ourselves the answer is going to be no. We could have done better. Again, have I progressed according to my full potential during the count thus far? We wish we could say otherwise, but again, in truth, the answer is no. We do not even conceive of that potential! There is so much more both to learn and to incorporate into our lives! This is a good thing! After all, if we had attained our goals there would be no more advancement possible! What would we do then? No, there is always more to learn and incorporate into our lives and there always will be, Baruch HaShem! So having reached this point, whatever this point, we now renew our commitment to this process and our determination to achieve the desire of our heart: devekut with HaShem.
Today is day 22 of the Omer count. This is a most significant numeral! Aleph-Tov, את (or א - ת by the Western order). The Aleph-Tov is aligned with the number 22 in Hebrew Gematria. Interestingly, this number holds a dual significances which makes its English equivalent, 22, seem quite appropriate somehow. In standard Western numerology the number 2 represents dualism. 22 is "dualism doubled," which according to that system, has the peculiar ability of cancelling out the negatives of the numeral 2 and enhancing its positives and then doubling them. Hence, the 'Mystic of New Orleans' I once studied with used to declare that "22 is Love and Love is 22." Indeed, in several ancient cultures 22 was considered to be the number of and key to God's Kingdom.
In Hebrew gematria the Aleph-Tov warns of woe. It suggests ego run amok, pride and arrogance which is capable of destroying ones holiness. Proverbs 16 has a lot to say this topic! Its worth giving it a read. Chesed alone can be misleading as we've discussed. Shlomo HaMelech warns, "To human beings belong the plans of the heart, but from HaShem comes the proper answer of the tongue." Woe to one who is deceived by the duality of material nature! Informed emunah is the escape mechanism from this duality. The understanding that everything comes from G-d. This realization leads to Unity with the Beloved and the unification of all duality in the state we refer to as devekut. By transcending dualistic material perceptions and embracing Oneness with the Beloved one merits that the Torah be written on ones heart. Such blessed people are not confused by the duality of material existence.
How is this freedom achieved? Through two sets of dual practices: 1. through Torah knowledge (#1) and Torah practice (#2), and 2. through Hitbodedut, which is personal prayer or speaking to G-d (#1) and meditation, which is listening to G-d (#2). Of this truth Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches:
The Mitnagdim (opponents of the Chassidim) say that the main thing is to study Torah. The Chassidim say the main thing is prayer. But I say: Pray and study and pray.
Siach Sarfey Kodesh 1-87
These two combined, Torah and Hitbodedut, empowers emunah and attachment to G-d (or devekut).
To this end it is interesting to consider Psalm 119. 119 equals 11, which when doubled equals 22. It is both the longest Psalm and the longest chapter in the Tanach. It resides in the very center of the Tanach and consists of 22 verses of 8 lines, arranged as an acrostic, corresponding to the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Mystically the Aleph-Tov ( את) defies translation. When Elohim created the heavens and the earth את opens the Way as a Key. Of this, certain of our mystics note Isaiah 22:22 which reads:
"The key of the house of David
I will lay on [Mashiach Ben David's] shoulder;
So he shall open, and no one shall shut;
And he shall shut, and no one shall open.
Practice: Assure that your Love and Mercy manifests with disciplined endurance and good sound judgement. Let your Love be strong and remain motivated by your love of HaShem. Let your enduring love for others be fed by your commitment to experience HaShem's Love so that His purposes may be brought to fruition through your actions, through your every word and deed. Have you allowed your commitment to waver during these 22 days? If so, re-commit yourself to the goals expressed, knowing that HaShem has granted you free will to advance or to retreat, to choose life or to reject it (Deuteronomy 30:19).
In spiritual life what matters is not how many times we fail, but how many times we get back up. Continue forward with enduring Loving Kindness.
Day 23. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Two: Gevurah of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom sh’losha v’esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
shelosha shavuot ushnay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-three days, which are
three week and two days of the OmerKavanah: Gevurah is Might and Netzach is Victory. You have now developed your consciousness, infusing it with Divine Love. Through your unity with HaShem's Will your victory is now assured. You are open to HaShem working through you to bestow His blessings outward. To be successful it is important to utilize all of the emanations at ones disposal with Knowledge, Judgement and Compassion
When practicing tikun olam it is vital to employ Endurance and good judgement. Ones goals must be achievable, lest the divine energies elevated be wasted. remember that no word goes forth from HaShem's Mouth that is not realized (Numbers 23:19). Before declaring your will know, to the best of your ability, that it is also HaShem's Will.
Netzach provides needed Endurance to the Soul. This enhanced Endurance empowers the prepared Soul to achieve great, even seemingly impossible, successes. However understand this well well: Netzach can also be a detriment for the one who fails to accept the limitations of his situation or inevitable endings. Some things can not be done nor undone. This is not a lack of emunah to say this, it is the acceptence of the limitations HaShem established. Yet even the impossible is possible for the Beloved! Therefore a balanced understanding of the Divine Purpose is needed. Ones Endurance must be strong, however it also needs to be realistic and balanced. As in the Kenny Rodger's song The Gambler:
You've got to know when to hold 'em
Know when to fold 'em
Know when to walk away
And know when to run.Having determined the brokenness to be addressed in ones tikun olam, one must establish a workable and rational course of action. Sometimes this may mean a blueprint or specific strategy, sometimes a "leap of faith." This can only be determined when evaluating the situation judiciously. Knowing that everything is in the Hands of HaShem one goes about this work filled with emunah and optimism that HaShem will bring success. We labor and He alone determines the outcome.
Practice: Consider a need you wish to address. Is your plan feasible given your means and practical limitations? Dreaming big is fine, but have you established a workable strategy to achieve your goal? It is usually best to start more modestly and grow as HaShem blesses ones service, rather then reach for the stars and fall short. Consider for instance that Moshe Rabeinu help up his arms to part the Sea but only when simple Jew walking into the waters with the power of his emunah did the waters begin tpo part and they reached his neck! Likewise we are commanded to do the work, to take the walk, knowing that all outcomes reside with HaShem. As Tikkun Olam is our service to HaShem we wish to do the best we can and rely on Him for the rest. So, consider your goals realistically and prayerfully, then move forwards with wisdom, discipline and emunah. Who knows where a well formulated strategy might lead!
Day 24. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Three: Tiferet of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom arba-a v’esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
shelosha shavuot u’shelosha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-four days, which are
three weeks and three days of the OmerKavanah: Netzach (Endurance) is not a desirable end in itself. Rather it provides a means of achieving ones goal. When Netzach is out of balance with Hod (Splendor) it can easily become stubbornness and hard heartedness. We have all met people with this undesirable trait. "I'm right and nothing you say is going to sway me!" This is an ugly attitude to have and it opposes Tiferet (Beauty). Tiferet is the power that integrates Chesed (Compassion) with Gevurah (Strength). Without this influence, Netzach can become a curse rather than a blessing. Our Strength and Endurance needs to be balanced and tempered with beauty. In its positive position Netzach is the righteous tzelem Elokim or right leg of Adam Kadmon. Without our legs we could neither walk forward nor bow before our King.
Consider that prior to killing Agag, the King of Amalek, Samuel the prophet of G-d said: "And also the Strength (or "Netzach") of Israel [i.e. HaShem] will neither deceive nor repent for He is not a man that He needs to repent" (I Samuel 15:29). One whose will is strong and harmonious with the Will of HaShem remains firm in his resolve. As Menachem Begin is quoted as saying: "The Jew bows before no man, only G-d." One who stands firmly in HaShem's Presence is a "true Jew," a son of Avraham Avinu, and has no need to change his/her mind nor to reconsider where he stands. He stands as Emet (Truth).
"To repent" or make teshuvah means to change one’s mind and direction. The Netzach of HaShem has no need to do this. It is perfectly settled in the Mind of HaShem. One who is "on the Derech" or properly walking the Way of G-d, dwells securely within the Mind of G-d. He dwells in constant teshuvah, because he is always cognizant of even the most subtle of HaShem's leading. However we are mortal, fallible people. When we stand in our own power, according to our own assumptions and refuse to make teshuvah (to repent) when needed, this is a negative character trait that can bring us to destruction if left unchecked. In our arrogance we often deceive and lie to ourselves so that we can claim to be unaware that we have left the Derech far behind. In truth, every Soul knows better. This is a tragic misuse of our endurance and our freedom. As HaShem says concerning His people: "Hearken to Me, you hard-hearted people who are far from righteousness" (Isaiah 46:12).
Netzach stands firm forever and never repents. This is because the Beloved IS Netzach, while we HAVE Netzach. To paraphrase, 'Netzach is not a mortal man who fears death and thereby needs to repent in the face of death', but we are. The beauty of Tiferet and the balance of Hod acting upon Netzach enables the Soul to become ever more firmly established in the Beauty and Loving Kindness of the Beloved with all possible Endurance.
Today's goal is the establishing of Peace and the Balancing of stressed relationships, both Divine and human. As the Soul progresses towards Devekut its goal is gradually achieved. The Soul's work increasingly brings honor and adornment to the Holy One. Tiferet balances and synthesizes the influences that otherwise might oppress the Soul, such as rigidity and hard-heartedness. Tiferet is gentle and supple unleashing Compassion and Love. By emphasizing the areas of agreement, recognizing and acknowledging the positive intentions of others, both parties draw closer towards unity and expands the domain of Righteous Shalom, the coming Kingdom of HaMashiach ben David.
Practice: Having decided to manifest mercy (rachamim) to another through your actions, determine your means of doing so through a balanced and enduring plan of action. If there are hard feelings be the first to forgive without requiring an apology or reciprocal response from the other. One who hates harms only himself, while one who loves benefits everyone and draws forth the Redemption. So exercise the Beauty of your Enduring Love by strengthening your friendships, then your alliances will endure and you will remain standing firm, never bowing before anyone but HaShem.
Day 25. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Four: Netzach of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom chami-sha v’esrim yom, shehaym
shelosha shavuot v’arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-five days, which are
three weeks and four days of the OmerKavanah: Today's double Netzach (Endurance of Endurance) draws from its dual nature to reveal an important element of our success. The Victory of any well prepared plan depends on its execution and the Endurance to see it through to completion. HaShem has empowered all human beings with amazing Endurace. When the natural attribute of endurancce is enthused with Divine Endurance through the unification of the Sefirot, one is empowered to stand firm in any sitution with patience and emunah. By applying one's will power efectively one survives and even thrives in the midst of even great difficulties. The resulting consciousness empowers one to draw ever more closely to the Beloved in order to be the conduit of His Blessings.
Ask yourself: Is my behavior erratic or consistent? Am I reliable or unreliable? Am I the kind of person who stands behind my word or do I let people down who depend on me? Do I finish what I begin or am I afraid to commit and stay the course? Do I fear being trapped by commitment?
If I am afraid, why? Is it a reaction to some past trauma, heartache or uncaring words? Some people misuse their Endurance to persevere in perceived failure, to affirm the negatives they feel about themselves. Instead of cultivating Endurance in healthy areas, have I developed a capacity for endurance in unhealthy experiences? With emunah realize that such feelings arise from a lack of true understanding:
"It was You who created my conscience; You fashioned me in my mother’s womb.
I praise You, for I am awesomely, wondrously made; Your work is wonderful; I know it very well.
My frame was not concealed from You when I was shaped in a hidden place, knit together in the recesses of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed limbs; they were all recorded in Your book; in due time they were formed, to the very last one of them.
Your eyes saw my unformed limbs; they were all recorded in Your book; in due time they were formed, to the very last one of them.
I count them—they exceed the grains of sand; I end—but am still with You -- Psalm 139Practice: With unshakable emunah (active, complete faith) in the Beloved, allow divine inspiration (through Chochmah) to activate your rational mind (through Binah) with a judicious strategy to excel in your goals. Then place your right foot (tzelem Elokim) forward and pursue your goal with intention and emunah to cpmpletion.
Day 26. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Five: Hod of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shi-sha v’esrim yom, shehaym
shelosha shavuot va-chamisha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-six days, which are
three weeks and five days of the OmerKavanah: Standing in the Presence of HaShem one is filled with awe and spontaneous worship. This worship needs no siddur, no formulae, because it flows naturally from and to the Divine Soul and Consciousness. This natural attachment to and awe of Elohim Tzva'ot (God of Hosts) transcends all rational thought. Within these Sacred Waters one tastes Eternity and becomes enraptured. Hod is the "left leg" of Adam Kadmon. While the right leg, Netzach bends the knee before the King with righteous pride, Hod does so utterly enraptured in the Splendor of the Beloved Presence. Caring nothing for self Hod moves forward or pauses or bends the knees out of sheer spiritual abandonment and adoration. While Netzach recieves the greater praise from his fellows, Hod enjoys the greater blessings of the Beloved. The source of Hod is Acknowledgment (hoda’ah) of the Realization of the Glory and responds by emitting vibrations or hed of pure healing Light.
Hod is the number 15 and rules all numbers between 1 and 5. Numerically this means that Hod, firmly established in Netzach (Eternity and Endurance), control the five emotions of the heart (Chessed to Hod). Binah, the "mother" of the heart recieves and communes with the emited lower light of Hod and brings Compassion as a foundational empowering strength as Adam Kadmon stands or kneels..
Practice: Present your plans before the King with all sincereity and intention. Offer them to Him for His pleasure only, not for any personal gain. Is the King pleased with your offering? By the Light of His Face determine His acceptance of your offering. Is there some flaw in the design or its execution? Could your gift be improved upon? Seek Divine Satisfaction rather than your own. Do not be possessive nor take credit for your offering. Rather elevate the Splendor and Quality of your offering with deepest Gratitude to the Beloved. In this way, offering by offering, prayer by prayer, action by action. you will purify your consciousness and merit ever greater Divine Joy and Light.
Day 27. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Six: Yesod of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shiva v’esrim yom, shehaym
shelosha shavuot v’shi-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-seven days, which are
three weeks and six days of the OmerKavanah: The work of tikkun may be likened to sexual congress. Within the bonds of marriage sexual congress is a most holy and righteous activity. Human sexuality has two sacred purposes according to our Tradition. It solidifies the love and commitment of the husband and wife and then, through their love, a third being comes forth into the world, a child of their Love. In a surprisingly similar way, through the Love of G-d the Soul unites with the Beloved. Through frequent Torah study and hitbodedut the couple grow in their Knowing (Da'at) of one another. The two become "one flesh" as referenced at Genesis 2:24. Enthused by this Sacred Union the Soul enters into the Creative Process with the Creator.
Material existence is constantly, ceaselessly, being created anew according to our sages as well as the secular scientists. Under natural law we are completely different physical beings after each seven year cycle. It is for this reason that some sages read not: "In the beginning Elohim created..." but rather as, "In the beginning of G-d's creating...." His creating is seen as an eternal pastime, as a calling forth into being that which had not yet been, although the essential elements came to be during the Creative Seven Days described in Genesis.
Such holy relationships, both in terms of human marriages and in unions with the Beloved, are likened to those between a righteous husband and his eshet chayil (or woman of valor). We read of such Divine Unions with our Beloved by the hand of Shlomo HaMelech:
The Song of Songs, by Solomon.And so on. Is your love with the Beloved so sublime? Have written love poetry to G-d? Expressing your desire for Divine communion with the tangible language of heartfelt desire? Our sages well understood that by the things we know we can glimpse those which are beyond us.
Oh, give me of the kisses of your mouth, For your love is more delightful than wine.
Your ointments yield a sweet fragrance, Your name is like finest oil— Therefore do maidens love you.
Draw me after you, let us run! The king has brought me to his chambers. Let us delight and rejoice in your love, Savoring it more than wine— Like new wine they love you!
I am dark, but comely, O daughters of Jerusalem— Like the tents of Kedar, Like the pavilions of Shlomo.
Don’t stare at me because I am swarthy, Because the sun has gazed upon me. My mother’s sons quarreled with me, They made me guard the vineyards; My own vineyard I did not guard...
Tell me, you whom I love so well; Where do you pasture your sheep? Where do you rest them at noon? Let me not be as one who strays Beside the flocks of your fellows.
If you do not know, O fairest of women, Go follow the tracks of the sheep, And graze your kids By the tents of the shepherds.
I have likened you, my darling, To a mare in Pharaoh’s chariots:
Your cheeks are comely with plaited wreaths, Your neck with strings of jewels......Ah, you are fair, my darling, Ah, you are fair. Your eyes are like doves Behind your veil. Your hair is like a flock of goats Streaming down Mount Gilead.
Your teeth are like a flock of ewes Climbing up from the washing pool; All of them bear twins, And not one loses her young.
Your lips are like a crimson thread, Your mouth is lovely. Your brow behind your veil [Gleams] like a pomegranate split open.
Your neck is like the Tower of David, Built to hold weapons, Hung with a thousand shields— All the quivers of warriors.Such Love does not develop over night. Such relationships require time, commitment and endurance to nurture. With HaShem's Mercy however such divine relationships produce the offspring of our desires. When considered as metaphor, our beloved gives birth to our hearts desires. The tikun olam or global rectification comes to fruition to one with such love, even now. Such blessed people enjoy the Fruit of Devekut, near complete attachment to the Beloved. It is for this reason that our sages align Yesod with the tzadikim. The Tzadikim are the highest Lovers or HaShem. They have achieved Devekut and they can guide us in its ways. Of the Tzadikim Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches us:
All things and all creatures stand on the earth all the time. The only way anything can leave the earth is if some countervailing force overcomes the pull of gravity, distancing the object from the earth in accordance with the strength of the countervailing force. As soon as the countervailing force ceases, the object returns to earth.
Thus when a person throws an object upwards, the force that he applies distances it from the earth: the greater his strength, the higher he can throw it. Afterwards, however, when the countervailing force is spent, the object falls back down to the ground because of the gravitational pull of the earth, which draws everything to it. Were it not for this, nothing would stay on earth, because the earth is a round ball and everyone in the world stands on its surface. It is because of the earth's gravitational pull that a thrown object falls back down to earth as soon as the countervailing force ceases.
The Tzaddik is the "earth", for "the Tzaddik is the foundation of the world" (Proverbs 10:25 ) and everything rests upon him. The Tzaddik has a gravitational power of attraction that draws everything to him, for the true Tzaddik is the foundation of the world and everything derives from him. All the other Tzadikim are only branches of the true Tzaddik, each according to his level: one may be a branch while another may be a branch of a branch. For this unique Tzaddik is humble and lowly and makes himself like dust: for "I am dust and ashes" (Genesis 18: 27 ) . He is the foundation of the world precisely because he is "dust" and thus he supports everything.
And it would be fitting for all humanity to be drawn to this Tzaddik who is the "dust" and has this "drawing power". However , people are separated and distanced from the Tzaddik by a countervailing force, because of the words and deeds of certain individuals who forcibly distance people from the Tzaddik in accordance with the strength of the countervailing force. However, when this countervailing force ceases, the person is once again drawn to the Tzaddik, who is the "dust" and possesses a gravitational force of attraction.
Some people remain very far from the Tzaddik as long as they are still under the influence of the countervailing force. But as soon as this force is interrupted, they draw close again. And when traveling to the Tzaddik, the nearer he comes to the place of the Tzaddik , the greater his desire becomes, because he is approaching the source of attraction -- Likutey Moharan I, 70Such a great Tzadik is our Rebbe Nachman of Breslov. Allow his sublime stories and teachings to fill you with joy and to enlighten your consciousness.
Practice: Having determined your course of action, having considered that plan rationally and objectively, having presented it before the Throne of HaShem for refinement as discussed yesterday, you are now ready to bond your disciplined kavanah or intention with your project and hence, thus bringing your tikkun to fruition.
Day 28. Week Four: Netzach - Endurance, Eternity
Day Seven: Malchut of NetzachBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
Ha-yom shemonah v’esrim yom, shehaym
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)
arba-a shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-eight days, which are
four weeks of the OmerKavanah: In the Tehillim Asaph reveals at Psalm 82 that HaShem stands in the divine assembly, among the divine beings, and pronounces Gevurah (Judgment) on the earth:
A song of Asaph. God stands in the congregation of God; in the midst of the judges He judges.
How long will you judge unjustly, favoring the wicked, forever?
Judge the poor and orphan [with mercy]; justify the humble and the impoverished.
Release the poor and the needy; save [them] from the hands of [the] wicked.
They do not know, neither do they understand [that] they walk in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are out of balance.
I said, "You are divine creatures, all of you are messengers of the Most High."
But alas, as mortals you will die, and as one of the princes, you will fall.
Arise, O God, judge the earth, for You will inherit all the nations.Who are these divine beings? HaShem says: "I had taken you for divine beings, sons of the Most High, all of you..." We are the Children of the Most High. As such we are the Prince and Princesses of His Majesty! How few of us understand what this means!
In Sefirah Malchut we make our stand as the Children of the Most High! Established in His Kingdom, in our rightful places, we blend Netzach, by applying the Endurance of our Tikun (Soul rectification). As we develop our consciousness of the Beloved, His Divine Judgements against our faults and failures are tempered by our emunah and kavanah (i.e. by our faith in Him and our intentions to serve Him properly). For this reason, the actions of such people are succesful and always rewarded by HaShem. In our service we therefore have nothing to fear. We are Empowered by His inward Presence to stand firmly in His Presence and speak His word towards the revelation of Tikkun Olam.Practice: As the Psalm encourages: show favor towards the faithful rather than the wicked, care for the orphan and vindicate the lowly and the poor. Stand immovable before tyrants and with gentle give and take with the righteous and merciful. Show Mercy to all by temperering your Judgements and expressing proper Compassion. In this way Arise, O Child of the King and judge the earth! knowing that all the nations are your possessions to present before your Father, the King.
Day 29. Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendour.
Day One: Chesed of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom tisha v’esrim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot v’yom e-chad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is twenty-nine days, which are
four weeks and one day of the OmerKavanah: By the Loving Kindness of HaShem we have now completed the blessings of four of the seven Sevens and are now prepared to begin the fifth. Our Soul is drawing ever closer to the Source, which is like a raging yet controlled Fire. Soon will come Lag B'Omer. This week we consciously embrace the attribute of Hod, with its emanation of humility and radiant splendor. As the Soul continues the process of advancing, Hod, which is ha'tzelem Elokim or the left leg of the Unified Soul, Adam Kadmon, firms its resolve and determination to achieve the Source, Devekut with the Beloved. Through the Power of the Divine Presence within, the Soul moves forward against any and all obstacles it may encounter. In the face of death or great tragedy for example one says: "Baruch Dayan Ha'Emet" (or "Blessed is the true judge"). When confronting great personal loss or tragedy the entire blessing is recited as, "Baruch Ata Adonai Eloheino Melech HaOlam Dayan Ha'Emet." In all cases, both the seemingly positive and the seemingly negative, the Awakening Soul always responds, "Baruch HaShem" ("Praise G-d"). This certainty in G-d's Guidance and Protection arises from Chesed, Loving Kindness, balanced by Gevurah or Might. With these, the Balanced Soul now experientially knows ("Da'at") that everything comes from the Beloved and everything is therefore Good and could not possibly be any better. Established in Love (Chesed) the Soul boldly moves onward in the Glory and Splendor (Hod) of the Divine Presence in Whose Light (Ohr Chadash) the tzadikim dwell. We pray that we are, even now, included among this Perfected Community referenced at Tehillim 82 as we discussed yesterday.
While Netzach is personally invested in spiritual advancement as "Victory," for Hod advancement is simply the natural process. What is planted and watered grows! So the Soul concludes, "HaShem planted me and He waters me for reasons of His own, so these blessings I am experiencing can only be arising from His Loving Care for me, not from my meager offerings. I will therefore simply bathe in the ocean of His Loving Kindness as I continue to seek to merit His Glorious Way." Hod simply accepts the glories in the Divine Presence as a child accepts and expects the Love and Protection of his Parent. Hence the Soul expects nothing in return for his service and yet receives everything that i needed and much much more.
In ecstacy the Soul cries out, "Dayanu!" (it is enough already!). However the Soul is only beginning to taste the Divine Nature of HaShem's Being at this point! This state is at times difficult to bear for one without this Dayanu consciousness of Da'at. Due to the extreme 'sweetness' of HaShem's blessings at times moving forward may feel like walking through thick molasses! This is because in Hod HaShem exacts retribution for all faults and all unrighteous, thereby manifesting His Mercy by enhancing what is Just and Good. This may cause those who are far away from Him to fear both the known and the unknown. Rather than seeing HaShem in both, the seeming positive and the seeming negative, one who is unprepared fears that the Good will end, knowing it is truly undeserved, and that the Bad, which he secretly feels is deserved, will come upon him. Hence Rebbe Nachman of Breslov warns:
When someone asks his friend how he is and the friend says, "Not good", this can be an opening for trouble. Because G-d says: "You call this not good? I'll show you what not good is!"
But if when his friend asks how he is, he answers brightly, "Good, thank G-d!" even though things really are not so good, God says: "This you call good? I'll show you what good is!"
Siach Sarfey Kodesh 1-32
The love and emunah of negative people is tainted and egocentric. Due to a lack of true understanding such people depend upon their own understanding and strength rather trusting in HaShem. The tzadikim on the other hand, acknowledging their unworthiness, bow humbly before the Judge manifesting their awe of His Splendor (Hod) and His Loving Kindness (Chesed). They say Baruch HaShem! For such people there is only Pure Love and Emunah. Such blessed tzadikim dwell in the glorious Realms of Devekut, attachment to HaShem.
Practice: In Hitbodedut (private, secluded prayer and meditation) experience the Love of G-d to your merited fullness. Empty yourself of all foreign thoughts and allow His Loving Presence to en-wrap you as a tallit of the finest materials in Joy, contemplating the absolute Mercy He bestows upon you at each moment of every day. Know (Da'at) this Presence not as intellectual concept but as the experiential Reality. "Belief" is good but Knowing is better!
Now, enhance your perception of the Divine Presence in the quietness of your Soul. Gently breath in deeply and release your doubts and concerns with an audible sigh. Whisper your heartfelt thanks to the Beloved, "Baruch HaShem." Silently dwell in His Presence for the time being. You have no where to go because you are in the most sacred place there is, His Presence. Just be Present in His Presence.
As you leave this state of bliss purpose that will extend this shalom into all areas of your life and outward to all you encounter, to your fellow humans, to the animals, the environment, and to all life. Shalom. When you hear of the seemingly negative things that happen from time to time, breath in, sigh with genuine empathy, and behold the Hand G-d at work. Know that all seeming negatives are only Divine retribution from the Justice of the Holy One, calling the tzadikim and the sinner alike to ever greater teshuvah (return to righteousness) for the good of all souls.
Day 30. Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Two: Gevurah of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shloshim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot ushnay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty days, which are
four weeks and two days of the OmerKavanah: It is to our benefit that we suffer the consequences of our negative actions in this life. Such punishments are blessings of HaShem since the clearer our consciousness the more directly we perceive Reality. HaShem hides His Face from those who do not love Him. His punishment is evidence of His Love. The judgements of G-d, wisely utilized, lead the soul to humility and greater discipline. The path to Devekut. The Justice granted to those with discipline ultimately bring greater happiness and meaning to our lives, both now in the World to Come. With the Might (Gevurah) of HaShem's Splendor (Hod) the Soul moves ever forward by the Might and Certainty of Emunah.
Practice: When things do not go the way you would prefer, or when it is clear that HaShem is chastising you, rejoice! Thank Him for His Judgments and Mercies. Evaluate where you made poor decisions that did not arise from Emunah and correct them with a Joyous heart. Happy is the person HaShem Loves for He will surely guide his/her steps through Divine Interventions!
Day 31.Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Three: Tiferet of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Hayom e-chad u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot u’shelosha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-one days, which are
four weeks and three days of the OmerKavanah: Honest humility requires a balanced perspective. True humility focuses on balanced reality checks rather than exaggerated self-praise or self-deprecation. One who is humble will rightfully identify his/her strengths and weaknesses in a balanced ways. One who maintains humility before the Throne of HaShem will acknowledge that all he has comes from HaShem and that with HaShem all things are possible given the innumerable blessings already bestowed him.. Since such a wise tzadik seeks only HaShem's Splendor and Glory his Judgments o himself and others is true. In order to manifest true compassion for others one must be firmly established and balanced. Such a persona will naturally be humble. One realizes that everything belongs to HaShem, including his own possessions, find the greatest joy regardless out conditions. Consider the following tale from Rebbe Nachman of Breslov:
THE CLAY-DIGGER
From Sipurim Niflaim Once upon a time there was a poor man who used to make his living by digging clay and selling it.
One day he was digging in the mud when suddenly he found a jewel. It must have been worth a fortune! The Clay-digger had no idea how much it was worth, so he went to a jeweler to have it appraised.
The jeweler told him it was worth so much that there was no-one in their country with enough money to buy it! He would have to travel to London, the capital city. But being poor, the man did not have the money to make the journey. He went and sold everything he had, then went from house to house asking for contributions, until he had sufficient money to journey to the port.
He wanted to board the ship but he did not have enough money for the fare. He went to the captain and showed him the precious stone. The captain immediately took him onto the ship with great flourish, saying, "You're a sure bet!" The captain gave him a special first class cabin with every luxury as if he was a person of very high rank.
The Clay-digger's cabin had a window overlooking the sea. He would sit there enjoying himself immensely rejoicing over the diamond, especially at mealtimes, because joy and good spirits are medically proven aids to easy digestion!
One day he sat down to eat and placed the diamond on the table in front of him so that he could enjoy it. After his meal, he took a nap. While he was asleep, the cabin-boy came in and took the tablecloth with all the crumbs, and without even noticing the diamond, shook everything into the sea!
When the Clay-digger awoke he realized what had happened. He almost went out of his mind with worry and anguish. What was he to do? The captain was a pirate who would murder him for the boat fare.
Still, the Clay-digger pretended to be happy - as if he was quite unaware that anything had happened.
Every day during the voyage the captain used to talk to him for several hours. He did the same today. The Clay-digger made such a show of being happy that the captain didn't notice anything unusual.
The captain said to him, "I know you are clever and honest. I want to buy a large quantity of grain to sell in London - I can make a big profit. My fear is that I will be accused of embezzling from the royal treasury. Let the purchase be made in your name and I will reward you handsomely." The Clay-digger felt it was a good idea and he agreed.
As soon as they docked in London, the captain died. Everything was left in the hands of the Clay-digger! The ship's cargo was in fact worth many times more than the diamond!
The truth is that the diamond did not belong to the Clay-digger - and the proof is that he lost it. The grain did belong to him - and the proof is that he kept it. And he only gained what was his because he forced himself to keep happy.
Practice: Ensure that your compassion is based on true humility and love of G-d. Dwelling within that Love, Be Happy, even when you do not feel happy. Remind yourself of all the blessings HaShem gives you every single day and this does not bring to joy, and Act Happy. Acting Happy will bring you True Happiness. Rather than reaching 'down' to give charity and compassion as to an 'inferior,' give by reaching 'out', as to a brother or sister, or parent. Rather than performing the mizvot out of a sense of unpleasant duty, do so with genuine excitement at the honor that He has given that mitzvot specifically for you to perform! Why? To help you draw closer to your heart's true desire: Devekut. What a wonder! What an honor! What joy!
Day 32.Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Four: Netzach of HodHa-yom sh’nayim u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot v’arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-two days, which are
four weeks and four days of the OmerKavanah: That which is balanced can be maintained. One whose self image is harmonized with accurate humility within the realities of HaShem's Providence relies upon the Beloved in all areas of life. Such a person applies himself to the task at hand without the deterrences of doubt and self degradation on the one hand or egotism and pomposity on other. I once sat on a peaceful terrace on a beautiful spring day with others entranced in contemplation of the Beloved. After an hour or so, the teacher called us back to normal reality, inviting us to share our thoughts or realizations. A man quietly responded, "It's such a pleasure sitting here. I am not worthy of this joy, seeing that I am the greatest of all sinners. Thank you." The teacher arose, picked up the study notes that were near at hand, rolling them up as he approached the man. I can only speak for myself o course, but I was not yet completely "back," I was still in that interim place of mixed awareness, The teacher approached the man and, using the paper cudgel, popped him upside the head, and said firmly: You aren't the greatest anything!
Netzach, as stated above, is partially motivated by the pride of Victory. Infused with the emanation of Hod however, Netzach transforms both "feet" of Adam Kadmon in pure celebration of the Light and Radiance o the Holy One. With this harmony of Netzach and Hod Adam Kadmon becomes completely stable leading the Soul to become firm established and immovable on Yesod (which is Foundation). Such a balanced person knows that all successes and failures come from HaShem alone for our ultimate benefit. The Soul at this point embraces this Truth and bows his head in Humility or raises his arms upward in Awe and says simply: Baruch HaShem. Thank you G-d!
Consider this popular tale:
One day Shlomo HaMelech decided to humble Benaiah ben Yehoyada, his most trusted minister. He said to him, "Benaiah, there is a certain ring that I want you to bring to me. I wish to wear it for the Sukkot festival, which gives you six months to find it for me."
"If the ring exists anywhere on earth, your majesty," replied Benaiah, "I will find it and bring it to you. Pray tell, what makes this ring so special?"
The wisest of all kings replied, "It has special powers. If a happy person looks at it, he becomes sad, and if a sad person looks at it, he becomes happy." Shlomo knew that no such ring existed however anywhere in the world, but he wished to give his minister some added humility.
Spring passed and then summer, but still Benaiah had no idea where he could find the ring. On the day before Sukkot, he decided to take a walk in one of the poorest quarters of Jerusalem. Passing the shop of a poor merchant he asked, "Have you by any chance heard of a special ring that makes the happy wearer forget his joy and the broken-hearted wearer forget his sorrows?"
The elderly craftsman nodded silently and produced a plain gold ring from a rolled-up carpet where he concealed his more valuable items. He then turned and engraved something on it. When Benaiah read the words on the ring, his face broke out in a wide smile.
That night the entire city welcomed in the festival of Sukkot with great joy and fanfare. "Well, my friend," said Shlomo HaMelech, "have you found what I sent you after?" All his ministers laughed and Shlomo too smiled, believing his lesson had been learn. All men are limited by Divine Providence.
To everyone's surprise, Benaiah approached the king and held up a small gold ring. He declared, "Here it is, your majesty! This ring will humble the arrogant and console those in need, it will both remove the joy of those who exult and lighten the hearts of all who moun." With this he handed the ring to his king. Shlomo examined the ring, it was of avarage quality gold and smiled. He then read the inscription and the smile vanished from his face. The jeweler had written three Hebrew letters on the gold band: Gimel, Zayin, Yud, which signifies the words "Gam zeh ya'avor: This too shall pass."
At that very moment Shlomo realized that all his wisdom and fabulous wealth and tremendous power were but fleeting illusions, for one day everything, even he himself, would be nothing but dust.Sometimes we dwell in mourning. Sometimes we experience periods of sadness. During these 32 days we have been in mourning as it were for so many things. We have avoided sexual congress, various aspects of nomal grooming such as haircuts, we have not attended parties and similar occassions to joy. Then, as a gift from HaShem, come Lag B'Omer, the thirty third day of the Omer count, and we rejoice!
A psalm of David. A song for the dedication of the House.All we can say is: Baruch HaShem!
I extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, and not let my enemies rejoice over me.
O LORD, my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me.
O LORD, You brought me up from Sheol, preserved me from going down into the Pit.
O you faithful of the LORD, sing to Him, and praise His Holy Name.
For He is angry but a moment, and when He is pleased there is life. One may lie down weeping at nightfall; but at dawn there are shouts of joy.
When I was untroubled, I thought, “I shall never be shaken,”
for You, O Lord, when You were pleased, made [me] firm as a mighty mountain. When You hid Your face, I was terrified.
I called to You, O LORD; to my Lord I made appeal,
“What is to be gained from my death, from my descent into the Pit? Can dust praise You? Can it declare Your faithfulness?
Hear, O LORD, and have mercy on me; O LORD, be my help!”
You turned my lament into dancing, you undid my sackcloth and girded me with joy,
that [my] whole being might sing hymns to You endlessly; O LORD my God, I will praise You forever.Practice: Accept with complete Emunah that the Holy One, who alone is blessed, is in charge of all activities and situations, the seemingly positive and the seemingly negative, the seemingly large and the seemingly small. Realize and accept the Truth that the Beloved places you into your every situation for the purposes of motivating your tikun, your repair. Empowered by this realization and established in Netzach and Hold move deliberately forward, step by step, doing what needs to be done with the Intention of doing HaShem's Will and being a blessing to everyone you encounter. In this way you will live an active and full life, free from all fears, doubts, and unbalanced emotions. Activate your Emunah and Play your role in life to its fullest, knowing that in time "this too will pass."
Day 33. ** Lag B'Omer **: Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Five: Hod of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’losha u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot vachamisha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-three days, which are
four weeks and five days of the OmerKavanah: Having acheived Netzach of Hod's consistent endurance with balanced humility your soul is freed. Being united with the Holy Holy One in your words, thoughts and deeds (to the degree you have merrited this), you now look forward through the eyes of emunah and see your goal clearly. Not that you have yet attained it, but from this plateau you are able to see the Promised Land in the distance. You know that by the mercy of HaShem you will merrit entrance into Gan Eden, if not in this life then in future. You recall that Moshe Rabbeinu was not blessed to enter the Land and like him, you continue towards the mountain top and accept HaShem's Divine Providence in every area of your life, commiting your self to ever deeper devekut (attachment to the holy One).
We learn the following from the Holy Zohar:
Pasook 32. from the Zohar Sulam
The most ancient among the ancient, Atika, WHICH IS CALLED THE UNKNOWN HEAD, which is most concealed, was established yet not established. It was established in order to maintain everything, BUT FROM ITS OWN ASPECT it was not established, BECAUSE ITS OWN ESTABLISHMENTS REVEAL NOTHING OF ITS OWN NATURE, and it cannot be found, THAT IS, IT IS INCOMPREHENSIBLE.
Pasook 33. from the Zohar SulamWhen it was established it produced nine lights, WHICH ARE THE NINE SFIROT KETER, CHOCHMAH, BINAH, CHESED, GVURAH, TIFERET, NETZACH, HOD AND YESOD OF ARICH ANPIN, THE GARMENTS OF WHICH ARE ABA AND IMA, MALE AND FEMALE, that glow from it, FROM THE UNKNOWN HEAD from its establishments. These NINE lights shine from it WITH CHASSADIM, glow from it WITH GVUROT, and spread in every direction BOTH TO CHOCHMAH AND TO CHASSADIM like a candle from which lights stream in every direction. When one approaches to observe the spreading lights, only the candle alone can be observed. THAT IS, THE CANDLE AND THE LIGHTS STREAMING FROM THE CANDLE ARE NOT TWO THINGS, SINCE THE LIGHT SPREADING FROM IT HAS NO SELF-EXISTENCE OR POWER, BECAUSE ALL ITS EXISTENCE LIES WITHIN THAT CANDLE. IF YOU TAKE THE CANDLE TO A DIFFERENT PLACE, THE LIGHTS SHALL SPREAD IN A DIFFERENT PLACE AND NOTHING WILL REMAIN OF THEM IN THE FORMER PLACE. Such is Atika Kadisha. It is a lofty, most hidden candle, incomprehensible save for the lights spreading FROM IT, SOME OF WHICH ARE revealed and SOME OF WHICH ARE hidden. They are called the Holy Name. BUT THE LIGHTS SPREADING FROM ATIKA KADISHA HAVE NO SELF-EXISTENCE, HEAVEN FORBID, ALL THEIR EXISTENCE IS WITHIN ATIKA KADISHA, THOUGH THEY ARE COMPREHENSIBLE AND ATIKA KADISHA IS NOT, LIKE LIGHTS STREAMING FROM THE CANDLE. For that reason it is all one.
Pasook 34. from the Zohar Sulam
The friends have said in ancient books THAT THE CHANGES SPREADING FROM IT are created grades, THAT IS, THEY COME INTO BEING THROUGH THE ESTABLISHMENTS CREATED, and that Atika Kadisha is revealed through each of them, since they are the constructions of Atika Kadisha. THAT IS, THEY ARE TYPES OF COVERS OVER THE ILLUMINATION OF BLESSED THE ENDLESS LIGHT AND THROUGH THESE COVERS THE LOWER BEINGS ARE ABLE TO COMPREHEND IT. ITS CREATION IS IN RELATION TO PEOPLE, BUT IN THE LIGHT ITSELF THERE IS NO CHANGE, HEAVEN FORBID. THIS IS LIKE A MAN WHO PUTS ON CLOTHES TO APPEAR BEFORE HIS NEIGHBORS. THAT MAN IS NOT AFFECTED AT ALL BY THESE COVERS, THOUGH OTHERS ARE. This is not the time for these matters, because I have already spoken of them in the holy Idra. BUT NOW I realize what I have not known that well, which until now was hidden in my heart. Now I alone testify before the Holy King and BEFORE all the truly righteous who came to hear these matters.
Practice: Know that the very practice that lead you to humble yourself before the Holy One is now leading you to the achievement of personal attainment. Free from all fear and doubt you lay aside the mourning of the Omer Count and celebrate your victory greatful that HaShem has bless you to merit your current position and situation in life. Behind you the darkness has become clear, the past uncertainties are revsolved and you realize that HaShem was there with you all along. You breath a quiet Baruch HaShem! Before you is the glorious Light, the Ohr Chadash, the creative Fire of Being and Creation. You have not yet attained that Light in its fullnes but you glimpse it, you feel its warmth and Love and you bask in its Radiance! You remind yourself even now in that joy that you must not quit your journey. There remains much work ahead. Today however, you clebrate and are revigorated.
The strictures of the omer period have been laid aside for the day. Marriages occur. Small children have their first haircuts. They play with bows and arrows. They scavage for fallen wood to help with the building of the bon fires in memory of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and the Light of HaShem. The Chassids often cut their hair and trim their beards. Other forms of grooming resume that have been laid aside during the count. Weddings and feasts are held. The Jewish world is filled with Joy and Light.
Then, as the sun sets on this 33rd day our collective and individual work continues. We increase our devotion and resume our dedication to reaching the goal. We continue the Omer count and its various restrictions to its completion on Shavuot.
Share the Joy of the Lag Ba'omer Celebrations in Meron, Israel, 2019 (Arutz Sheva coverage)
Day34.Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Six: Yesod of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom arba-a u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
arba-a shavuot v’shi-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-four days, which are
four weeks and six days of the OmerKavanah: Having achieved the plateau of Lag B'Omer we now resume the counting of the omer by bonding with the realization that we have achieved and bringing the work of our hands to fruition. For this reason we say,
וִיהִ֤י׀ נֹ֤עַם אֲדֹנָ֥י אֱלֹהֵ֗ינוּ עָ֫לֵ֥ינוּ וּמַעֲשֵׂ֣ה יָ֭דֵינוּ כּוֹנְנָ֥ה עָלֵ֑ינוּ וּֽמַעֲשֵׂ֥ה יָ֝דֵ֗ינוּ כּוֹנְנֵֽהוּ׃ תהילים צ:יז
May the pleasantness of the Lord our G-d be upon us. May G-d establish the work of our hands, our work, may G-d establish.Standing firmly with Netzach and Hod we reach down to our foundation (Yesod) fully grounded in our emunah as we continue the counting of omer renewed by the Fire of HaShem's Presence.
Practice: Where do you want to go from here? Concretize your plans and move forward boldly, with the certainty of HaShem's assistance and blessings. By embracing your plans fully and applying yourself to their execution, you ignite your Emunah through your awe of the Holy One and His Ways. Will that this Holy Fire should burn ever brighter in your Soul as you continue your way to Mount Sinai on Shavuot.
Day 35.Week Five: Hod: Humility and Splendor.
Day Seven: Malchut of HodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom chami-sha u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-five days, which are
five weeks of the OmerKavanah: Establishing ones life on a solid Foundation (ie. with the combination of Hod coupled with Netzach on Yesod) grants one mastery in this plane (Malchut), which is our 'kingdom'. When Psalm 82 says "Arise O God" it is in Malchut where we are to rule:
“I said, ‘You are “gods”; you are all sons of the Most High....’ Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are your inheritance'."When ones personal 'kingdom' or domain is firmly established with the emanation of Hod (balanced with Netzach) ones feet remain solidly planted (Yesod) on the earth (Malchut). Being firmly established, one glories in the Presence of HaShem Elohim (Holy Name, the God over all so called gods) and sits as a loyal and righteous Prince/Princess, not in the heavens nor even in meditational realities, but here, in the earth plane of normal consciousness and existence which is our Home. We are terrestrial creatures and Children of the Most High. Our Sages did not yearn to leave this world for a spiritual plane with streets of gold and pearly white gates. Rather they sought to bring down the Glory into terretrial reality so as to expand that Glory first to our people and then, through us, to the earth entire (Genesis 1:3). It is in this way that the Messianic prophecy of Isaiah chapter 11 with be actualized through one of our kinsmen.
Mashiach ben David will arise from the line of David. He will be completely human and filled with the knowledge of HaShem. This is to say, the Torah will be 'written on his heart', as it will be written on everyone's heart during the Olam Haba. Filled with this Wisdom Mashiach ben David will manifest the Love and Awe of HaShem with his every action. He will speak, judge, and direct those who heed his counsel, which will always be harmonious with the living Torah, which will be complete within his consciousness. He will have compassion for the downtrodden and will judge harshly yet fairly those who falsely judge others and who take advantange of them. From him will emanate Chesed, Loving Kingdness and Shalom. Sensing his love and mercy, his righteousness and Divine anointing, the good people of all nations will come and embrace him and his teachings (Zechariah 8:23).
Our Rebbe Nachman of Breslov adds:
Mashiach will conquer the entire world without firing a single bullet -- Siach Sarfey Kodesh 1-67
Mashiach's main weapon is prayer! -- Likutey Moharan I, 2
Mashiach will conquer the world only through simple people who recite the Psalms simply and sincerely -- Sipurim NiflaimThe Rebbe also made this provocative but doubtless true statement:
As to what will become of me, I have no idea. But this much I have achieved with the Almighty: the Mashiach will be one of my offspring -- Chayey Moharan #274By the word of HaMashiach, which will always be in complete harmony with HaShem's Will, innumerable miracles will occur, however the people will not accept him because of the miracles. They will follow him because of his Love and Compassion. The Gentile leaders will send delegations to Jerusalem asking that he should rule over their people (Zechariah 8:23). The Beit HaMikdash will be established, all of our Holy Land will be returned to us, membership in the Twelve Tribes will be revealed and we will all be apportioned our ancestral plots of land. Then, we will learn war no more and all the earth will live in peace and plenty as our Home, the earth, is purified. May this day come soon, even during our lifetimes.Practice: Enhance your humility and modesty by firmly establishing your place within the Olam Hazeh (the world as it is) while maintaining attachment to HaShem (devekut) through hitbodedut (personal prayer and meditation). This will empower you to assist both yourself and others spiritually and materially.
It is stated in the Talmud by Rabbi Nathan (Abot 4):
If you are holding a sapling in your hand and someone tells you, 'Come quickly, the messiah is here!', first finish planting the tree and then go to greet the Messiah.This is because while he has a vital role to play in the Redemption, so do we! If each of us will embrace our tasks with joy, then everything will work out perfectly. Set your mind to performing your tasks as best you can, and leave the rest to your peers and to HaShem.
Day36. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day One: Chesed of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shi-sha u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot v’yom echad ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-six days, which are
five weeks and one day of the OmerKavanah: We focus on Yesod this week. The emotional aspect of Yesod draws us to bond with those to whom we interact. Its emanation empowers our ability to connect with others and to form meaningful relationships. Through the developments presented in this course we are especially empowered to bond with the Tzadikim and thereby to bring Divine Love into fruition for the joy of all beings.
On the Body of Adam Kadmon Yesod is the procreative organ. Through its power generations have come forth since the very beginning of time as discussed at Pesachim 54a and hinted at at Proverbs 20:5. Through this 'organ' all future generations will emerge. Therefore for those who embrace its emanation properly, we have the sense of eternality with Yesod. Those who delve a bit deeper into the Jewish mysteries than we will do here, will appreciate the connection between the Tzadik, who is the "foundation of the world" (consider Proverbs 10:25), and the "Seventh Pillar." Regardless, it is for this reason that the Chassidim seek to attach themselves to the Tzadikim. This an area many fail to understand. There is a profound difference between Rebbe worship, which is strictly verboten, and attachment to the True Tzadik, which is required according to Chassidic understanding. We'll attempt to clarify this distinction a bit as we go along.
Unlike certain other paths, for Jews there is no "mediator" between humanity and the Beloved as imagined by those lacking in proper Torah understanding (Deuteronomy 32:39), however by attaching oneself to the true Tzadik one is assisted along his Way to G-d to degrees otherwise not possible. As explained at Tikkuney Zohar 69, 112a, because the Tzadikim have attained devekut (attachment) to HaShem it is 'as though' they were One Soul. 'Parts' of the Soul of the True Tzaddik may be found scattered throughout the entire creation, however especially among the Jewish Nation, and among the Jews, this Soul is especially to be found among the true Tzadikim. I have met many masters along my journey and readily attest to the truth of this statement. These 'fragments' of Divine Light are deposited in diverse and at times unexpected places. For the Chassidim however, attachment to the Rebbe, who is viewed as the True Tzadik, is seen as essential. In the opinion of the Breslov Chassidut, there has never been such a unique figure as Rebbe Nachman of Breslov. Chassidim may have and honor many different rabbis and rebbes, however for the Breslovers none are like Rebbe Nachman. Our Rebbe is praised as “the Flowing Stream, Source of all Wisdom” who fills the world with the Light of his Fire. He told his talmidim, "My fire will burn forever and never go out. My fire will burn until the Coming of the Messiah!" (Chayay Moharan #46). It is said that "Rebbe Nachman 'prepared the weapons with which our Righteous Mashiach will fight in order to put the world in order." (May this be G-d’s will. And we all say Amen. Mashiach's chief weapon is prayer, as stated at Likutey Moharan I, 2.
As the 'foundation' -- which is the primary mystic attribute of Yesod -- the Tzadik is viewed as the foundation of the earth, as stated in the Torah at Proverbs 10:2 and Berakhot 6b. We have an example of this in the account Avraham's dickering with the angels where by a quorum of Tzadikim would have saved Sodom, but there were none present. Without Tzadikim in the world our fate would be the same. We think of this Unified Tzadik as being "above" but actually, like the Torah, he dwells us among us and potentially within each of us.
Honest loving attachments to others develops unbreakable bonds and encourages good will, drawing out the spirit of the Divine Unity. As discussed previously, such personal attachments lead one to perform positive actions (tikkun olam) through the impulse of the yetzer tov rather than the negativity of the yetzer hara. Being motivated by selfless intentions (kavanah) one brings all actions to fruition as ones balanced and enlightened conscious service to HaShem. Such actions impact this world in ways we can not imagine and have their rewards in the Olam Haba, the World to Come.
Who is this Tzadik? He is none other than the Soul or Spark of HaMashiach! This Spark was among the first created things as stated at Pesachim 54a. Shmot Rabbah 40:3 tells us that all souls were included in the soul of Adam. How so? It is through the 'Sparks' and 'Luminous Fibers' surrounding and enthusing our existence! The name ADaM is the acronym for: Adam, David and Mashiach. Through Adam we came to be. Through David we learned to accept HaShem's reign and through HaMashiach Gan Eden will be restored. Are the pieces beginning to fit together for you? Ponder this: The world at large is known as Malchut; The Tzaddik is called Yesod. Through Yesod (the Tzadik), sustenance comes down to the whole world, feeding all and granting those who desire righteousness heavenly Milk and Honey! The Way of G-d is therefore to "love and fear of G-d alone, as taught by the Tzadikim" (Likutey Moharan I, 17).
Lashon hara (bad talk) and other offenses that divide us are therefore actually insults against HaMashiach, whom we claim to desire. Such divisions unbalance the needed harmony of Hod and Netzach and undermine our very foundations (Yesod). Such infighting and baseless hatred is why we remain still in the Olam Hazeh. Of this we read:
The ARI teaches that if a person did not perform a certain mitzvah he has to be reincarnated to perform that mitzvah. (Sha’ar HaMitzvot, Hakdamah). Thus, one who was unwilling to attach himself to the Tzaddik must be reincarnated in order to do so, because only through the Tzaddik can his service of G-d be elevated. The ARI teaches that all the Jewish souls were connected to and are a part of Adam’s soul, and Adam’s soul is that of the Mashiach. The soul of Moses comes in each generation to allow those in that generation to attach themselves to him (quote from the Breslov Research Institute).Practice: Before interacting with others take a moment to consider their humanity. Their life experiences are unknown to you, their path through this life is not the same as your own. Their pains are not your pains. Seek to discover, with loving empathy, their good points while showing Compassion for their apparent negative traits. Contemplate the Truth of our shared humanity and appreciate that our vast diversity is nothing other than the working out of HaShem's Love for and elevation of Human Soul. The ultimate goal being the bestowal of blessing upon all living beings and of drawing everything towards the eventual attachment with the Beloved. Such attachment is true Love. How blessed you are to be chosen to assist in this great work! Feel HaShem's Love bearing righteous 'fruit' within your consciousness and consider ways you can share this Love with others.
Rabbi Nathan (Abot 4) said:
If you are holding a sapling in your hand and someone tells you, 'Come quickly, the Mashiach is here!', first finish planting the tree and then go to greet the Messiah.Be the Mashiach! Make it your intention to be the anointed blessing-bringer to your piece of the world!
Day 37. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Two: Gevurah of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shiva u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot ushnay yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-seven days, which are
five weeks and two days of the OmerKavanah: May the Merciful One restore unto us the service of the Bet HaMikdash to its place, speedily in our days; Amen, Selah.
Acts of selfless loving kindness requires great strength of character. It is natural to desire credit for ones actions, however acts of tikun olam are best performed in secret, without fanfare and credit. The balance of Hod and Netzach we've been discussing helps to transcend this unfortunate trait. We all hear the stories of Israeli doctors saving the lives of those who hate our people. In some cases these acts are performed in ways that conceal the identity of both the wounded/ill and the healers, lest the healed party be penalized. Such actions are truly righteous! They are performed for the Love of humanity only, for the Love of HaShem. Likewise we must be strong enough, through Gevurah, to love, with Chesed, without thought of any return. For selflessness to bloom it must be residing in Yesod, founded and balanced. When we achieve the Strength (Gevurah) of Love (Chesed) as our balanced (Hod and Netzach) Foundation (Yesod) we will see our world (Malchut) transformed into Gan Eden with Melech HaMashiach reigning over us in the Theocratic Kingdom of G-d.
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches us:
Be very eager to serve God. Do as much as you can every day and every moment. The main thing is practical action. Study as much as you can. Carry out many mitzvot. Spend a lot of time praying and pouring out your heart to God. Do as much as you possibly can.
Even so, do not allow yourself to be rushed on account of the many devotions you may encounter in Torah literature. Maybe you wonder, "When will I be able to practice even one of these devotions, let alone all of them?"
Don't allow such thoughts to frustrate you. It is no good to rush and try to achieve everything at once. Go forward steadily, step by step.
If you are overhasty, trying to grasp everything at once, you may become totally confused, like when a house burns down and people snatch the most worthless items in their panic.
Go forward steadily, one step at a time. If you are unable to do everything, that is not your fault. God exempts those under duress.
There may be many things that you cannot do. Even so, you should long and yearn to fulfill them. The longing itself is a great thing - for God desires the heart -- Sichot Haran #27.Practice: Discipline yourself to seek opportunities to bless others without thought of reward. Place yourself in their shoes as best you can. Recall the words of Rabbi Hillel, 'that which you would not have done to you, do not to another'. Now turn that phrase around, 'grant to others what you would have done for yourself. Through your inner Strength and Emunah refuse to hate those who would abuse you. While guarding yourself and others, bond with the humanity of all people in order to reap the harvest of Disciplined Love.
Day 38. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Three: Tiferet of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom shemonah u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot u’shelosha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-eight days, which are
five weeks and three days of the OmerKavanah: Achieving Harmony (with Netzach and Hod) in ones goal produces Beauty and healthy Pride (Tiferet) in a job well done. With success achieved one can rest in Shalom and Contentment in the Presence of HaShem. Consider that Elohim, for Whom no work is required, works for Six days and on the very cusp of the Seventh takes His Rest. When His work is completed HaShem not only takes His Rest, but establishes ours as well throughout our generations!
As Shlomo HaMelech proclaimed so eloquently, for every purpose under the heavens there is a proper time. A time for action and a time for rest. In Yesod we are established and able to rest. This is because even as HaShem is One with His Emanations and His Creation, so too we do the pious intend to be at one with our actions, allowing our every thought and deed to emerge from within us, empowered by the Creative Intention established firmly in the merit of Yesod. All praises to HaShem Who Alone is our true Foundation (our Yesod) and our Strength (Gevurah). With His Causeless Blessings may we all seek to bless others and to assist in the work of Tikun Olam for good of all sentient beings.
Practice: Seek Harmony within yourself, within your world, and with your Creator through acts of balanced and intentional loving Kindness. Rebbe Nachman instructs us that "everything depends on a person's work and effort, nothing else. With work and effort, everyone can reach great levels" (Chayey Moharan #230). So commit yourself to being like our father Avraham. "Why does Ezekiel stress that Avraham was one? Because Avraham based his whole service of G-d on the fact that he was alone. He looked on himself as the only person in the world - as if everything was up to him - and paid no attention whatever to all the other people who had turned away from G-d and who were putting obstacles in his way. Avraham paid no attention to his father or any of the other people who tried to stop him. He carried on as if he was alone in the world. That is the meaning of Ezekiel's statement: "Avraham was one."
In the same way, anyone who wants to begin serving G-d can do so only if he thinks of himself as being alone in the world so that everything is up to him. He must pay no attention whatever to anyone who tries to hold him back - not even if it is his own father and mother or in-laws, wife and children. He should pay no attention to any others who try to mock him or entice him to give up or otherwise stand in his way. Just as "Avraham was one", so too he must look on himself as if he is alone in the world and everything depends on him - Likutey Moharan II, beginning.
Day 39. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Four: Netzach of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom tisha u’sheloshim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot va’arba-a yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is thirty-nine days, which are
five weeks and four days of the OmerKavanah: Sometimes the hardest thing to do is embrace success. We struggle so hard in life that once victory is achieved we can lose our balance and consider ourselves either glorified beyond measure, forgetting our Creator and His mercies, or condemn ourselves for not doing more, not doing better.
But friends, determine to be the blessing you were created to be and don't let the perfect defeat the good!Do your best with what you have and leave the rest in HaShem's hands.
Think of the heartrending scene near the conclusion of Shindler's List where Herr Direktor Oskar Schindler almost falls to pieces as he flees the incoming Allied soldiers:
Itzhak Stern: We've written a letter, trying to explain things in case you are captured. Every worker has signed it.
Oskar Schindler: Thank you.
Itzhak Stern: It is Hebrew, from the Talmud. It says, "Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire."
Oskar Schindler: I could have got more out. I could have got more. I don't know. If I just... I could have got more.
Itzhak Stern: Oskar, there are 1, 100 people who are alive because of you. Look at them.
Oskar Schindler: If I'd made more money. I threw away so much money. You have no idea. If I had just...
Itzhak Stern: There will be generations because of what you did.
Oskar Schindler: I didn't do enough.
Itzhak Stern: You did so much.
Oskar Schindler: This car. Goeth would've bought this car. Why did I keep the car? Ten people right there. Ten people. Ten more people. This pin... Two people. This is gold. Two more people. He would have given me two for it, at least one. He would have given me one, one more. One more person. A person, Stern. For this. I could have gotten one more person, and I didn't. And I didn't!If I am no longer struggling what am I? What am I to do now? An old mystical teaching is that Keter becomes Malkut of the next order. The end of one assignment is but the beginning of the next!
Practice: Accept that everything is perfect! That HaShem is in control. Embrace the person you now are even as you determine to progress to your next level. Script source: https://www.springfieldspringfield.co.uk/movie_script.php?movie=schindlers-list
Day 40.Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Five: Hod of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom arba-im yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot va’chamisha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty days, which are
five weeks and five days of the OmerKavanah: When two people come together there is always the possibility of conflict. This occurs when people have different goals, different purposes, different sources, and so on. However when two people come together with a shared vision conflict is easily avoided and peace becomes almost certain. Humility of heart and singleness of vision leads the people of G-d along the ways of peace by understanding that all goals and all purposes are in reality One in HaShem. What is this singular purpose? To bless. To engage in Tikun Olam, the rectification of brokenness is the goal o those who dwell in the Presence of Beloved.
In all of our affairs humans are ultimately seeking Joy, which is attachment to that which is beyond themselves. As the People of G-d we know what is beyond us and what establishes Unity. None other than HaShem. All of our goals and dreams should come together as One in the Echad Nature of the Soul's Beloved. Not holding onto the Ways of Torah however people sometimes seek fulfillment elsewhere and hence fail to find satisfaction. Like Bob Dylan such people "can't get no satisfaction" because they look for it in the wrong pace. When one is firmly established in the Awe of HaShem (Hod) one is established on the only truly certain foundation (Yesod). Those who are firmly established in Devekut understand:
Why the nations are gathered together against the Righteous and why the kingdoms think vain things; why they say: "Let us break their bands and cast off their cords from us." However He Who dwells in Heaven laughs; the Lord mocks them. Then He speaks to them in His wrath; and He frightens them with His sore displeasure. While the righteous declare, "I have enthroned My king on Zion, HaShem's holy mount." The righteous will tell of G-d's decree saying; The Lord said to me, "You are My son; this day have I begotten you" -- a paraphrase of Psalm 2:1-7.The righteous stand (in Gevurah) firmly Established (in Yesod) with Netzach (Victory) and Hod (Awe of the Glory) in balanced. They "serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with quaking." Hence they are immovable. Who are these righteous ones? They are all those who live by Emunah. Practice: Consider those who oppose you in all areas of life, personal, business, political, all those who seek to do you harm. Recognize that such people are seeking the same things as you. Like you, they want to establish meaning and joy in their lives. Like you, they believe their ways are just. But know that there is no Truth without HaShem. There is no meaning without HaShem! Recognizing that brings humility and brings devekut to fruition in your life.Hence they are immovable. Who are these righteous ones? They are all those who live by Emunah.Practice: Consider those who oppose you in all areas of life, personal, business, political, all those who seek to do you harm. Recognize that such people are seeking the same things as you. Like you, they want to establish meaning and joy in their lives. Like you, they believe their ways are just. But know that there is no Truth without HaShem. There is no meaning without HaShem! Recognizing that brings humility and brings devekut to fruition in your life.
Day 41. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Six: Yesod of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Hayom e-chad v ’arbaim yom, shehaym
chami-sha shavuot v’shi-sha yamim ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-one days, which are
five weeks and six days of the OmerKavanah: When considering one's relationships with others focus on the foundational principles of Torah, Emunah and Compassion. Allow superficialities to fade into the background. Ask yourself, is the relationship spiritually and materially healthy for all parties? Does the other party manifest compassion for you? Are you comfortable manifesting compassion for the other person. A true friend is one who will be there not only in the good times but also when times get hard. Sometimes its preferable to maintain acquaintance relationships rather than form committed friendships.
Understand that all beings are divinely created and guided for purposes established by the Holy One. Some relationships fit nicely together while others just don't mesh. As Shlomo HaMelech said, "Wealth attracts many friends, but poverty drives them all away" (Proverbs 19:4). In truth, a poor person who has a single true friend is wealthier than most of the rich folks by far. Choose your friends wisely. Consider whether your associations advance your walk with HaShem or if they detract from it. G-d forbid a relationships should interfere with ones relationship with the Beloved or lead either of party away from HaShem. Further, true friendships are life affirming. Do not allow side issues to divide you from others if it can be avoided. We read the following from Pirkei Avot 1:6: Joshua ben Perachyah said: Provide for yourself a teacher and get yourself a friend; and judge every man towards merit. A friend is one who stands firmly at your side, but not as a "yes-man." A true friend is one who speaks honestly and points out the areas of needed correction, with love, but whose commitment remains whether his advice is heeded or not. A friend is a teacher, a confidant, a listening wall who also replies with compassion. As Rebbe Nachman noted: It's not hard to push a person away. The real work is to draw him close and uplift him -- Netiv Tzaddik 31. This a friend does. He draws his friend close and always uplifts him. His attitude is, "I still want and long for my friend to be a pure Jew and a Tzaddik even if I myself feel unable to achieve the same. Even when I find myself unable to serve God, I am happy when another Jew serves Him (Sichot Haran #119).
We have not dealt much with Gematria in these discussions, but those who delve into this method of inquiry have an interesting point to consider here. The word Yesod has the numerical value of 80. 80 in Gematria equals 8 (chet) and chet plus yud (10) produces the value of chai or Life, 18. With Yesod of Yesod we have a double Chai capable attaching two people together for the enhancing of Life. We share our friendships with a bit of wine and we proclaim "L'Chaim! To Life!" Why? Torah Life descends to us from Yesod and the blessings Tzadikim who proclaim Torah, Emunah and Compassion to all beings.
This is because, as discussed in the previous days, Yesod is the dwelling place of the earthly Tzadikim or Righteous Ones. For this reason the Tzadik is known as Chai and his righteousness is bestowed upon those below (in Malchut) for their enhancement of the Life. As discussed, without a minion of the righteous HaShem's righteous indignation goes forth, as we beheld in the account of the destruction of Sodom and the cities of the Plain where the hospitality laws were so woefully disregarded. Chai also equals the word "klal," as in the entire body of the Jewish people, hence we say "Am Y'israel Chai! The Children of Israel still live!"
From this and more we understand that it is through the existence and blessings of the Tzadikim that the Jews merit the Mercy of HaShem and hence continue to survive even though as the most hated people in the history of the world. It is through the Jews that HaShem's Wrath is cooled as described at Isaiah 52-54. Likewise the Noahidim, who "take the hem of the Jew's tzitzit declaring: we will go with you because we see that G-d is with you," are still among us seeking to bless the world (Zechariah 8:23). Together the Jews and the Noahidim stand firm for Life and bring blessings to all of creation from this sure Foundation (of Yesod).
Practice: Determine to look beyond apparent differences in order to find the essential unity of all life, for the good of everyone you meet. While maintaining biblical ethics and morality, avoid being unnecessarily critical and judgmental knowing that truly, 'there but by the mercy of HaShem go I!' Focus on the existing commonalities and seek to further peaceful, positive relations with those HaShem brings across your path. Enter into bonds of friendship cautiously with those for whom such bonds are appropriate, but be ever mindful, as was Avraham Avinu, that your Emunah must only be in HaShem alone (Psalm 146:3-5)
Day 42. Week Six: Yesod: Bonding and bringing to Fruition
Day Seven: Malchut of YesodBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-two days, which are
six weeks of the OmerKavanah: Now that the Soul is established in Emunah through Emanation Yesod with Balanced Action (through harmonizing Netzach and Hod), the Soul sends forth its "angels" (or intentions) upward along the central pillar of the Emanation "Tree," crying out in the Dark Night to HaShem like Ya'akov did in his night vision. These "angels" reveal the righteousness of the Soul and HaShem in turn sends "angels" back to the Soul, bearing His Blessing and affirming the Soul's place in the everlasting Covenant. We read in Holy Writ:
And Ya'akov (Jacob) left Beer sheba, and he went to Haran. He arrived at the place and lodged there because the sun had set. Ya'akov took some of the stones of the place and placed [them] at his head, and he lay down in that place. And he dreamed, and behold! a ladder set up on the ground and its top reached into the heavens; and behold, angels of G-d were ascending and descending upon it. And behold, the L-rd was standing over him, and He said, "I am the L-rd, the G-d of Avraham your father, and the G-d of Isaac; the land upon which you are lying I will give to you and to your offspring. Your offspring shall be as the dust of the earth, and you shall gain strength westward and eastward and northward and southward; and through you shall all the families of the earth be blessed, through you and your seed - Genesis 28:10-14.As a Tzadik Ya'akov's cries arise upward through Yesod as discussed last night. Likewise the Soul manifests its realized inward Beauty (Tiferet), and its achieved Balance (Hod and Netzach). It is through Yesod that the righteous are judged by the Heavenly Court as tzadikim. When the prayers and heartfelt cries of a such a righteous person appear before HaShem, as 'angels', Divine Compassion for them emerges and HaShem responds favorably.
In response to the earnest Soul, HaShem in effect says "you think what you have attained thus far is good? I will show you good!" And He grants the blessings of Chochmah (Wisdom) and Binah (Understanding) to them. In this blessed state of divine communion the Soul communes with the Creator and experiences the Bliss and Love of that relationship. Here is where hitbodedut is most deeply experienced. As the angels of HaShem bring His blessings to the Soul they rain down upon Malchut watering the earth with "showers of blessings." For its part, the Soul ponders and incorporates these blessings into his consciousness. As the emanations of Chochmah and Binah are unified with Soul the state of Da'at (Know-ing) is merited and the Soul Knows her Creator ever more intimately.As in connecting with HaShem, so too we connect with one another on various levels as deemed appropriate. When bonding with others it is vital to maintain your own power and dignity. HaShem blesses His children with power and dignity, He never diminishes us, other than at times in preparation for our next increase. So too, we should each seek to strengthen one another, never to weaken or dishonor anyone else (nor ourselves). Bonding with another should strengthen both parties not weaken either. When bonding is properly balanced each person seeks the best interest of the other, secure in his/her own standing before HaShem and his community. In this way both parties have their needs met with neither acting with self serving interests. This is the Way of G-d, uniting everything in shalom to the glory of HaShem.
Practice: Invest meaningful time in hitbodedut, private, secluded prayer and meditation with HaShem. Send forth your 'angels' through sincere and concentrated prayer, followed by equally intensive periods of listening in meditative silence as His 'angels' descend to you in reply. Likewise, spend meaningful time with those in your circle, sincerely listening to them as they share from their heart. Allow their words to touch your soul and reply to them in kind, always in Love. Through your actions seek to enhance the well being of others, with no thought of reward. HaShem keeps perfect books! As each individual is unique each person brings different strengths and weaknesses into the relationship. Be quick to accept good intentions and slow to judge mistakes. Always make sure your responses enhance the mutual bonding and mutual respect as you give to and receive from others. In this way you will be blessed to take part in the advancement of tikkun olam with nothing remaining left to say other than "Baruch HaShem!
Day 43. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day One: Chesed of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-three days, which are
six weeks and one day of the OmerKavanah: As we begin the final week of Sefirat HaOmer, the Omer Count, we focus on our place in the material world, on personal dignity and self respect. Unlike other religious people Jews are not trying to ascend into the heavens. We are happy here where HaShem has placed us, on Mother Earth. Through the processes discussed here we are able to send our 'angels' to the Throne Room of the King of kings, our Parent, requesting His mercy upon us and our world. As sons and daughters of the Most High Monarch our birth rights entitle us, require us, to rule over whatever kingdom HaShem assigns to us (Psalm 82). We are all unique and yet we are all One as the extended family of Avraham Avinu and as the talmidim of Moshe Rabbenu.
Despite this divine appointment, each of us must merit our place within in the Perfected Community. Meriting this is the reason for human existence and our many lifetimes. The resultant elevation in consciousness has been the focus of these omer contemplations.
As Chesed impacts Machut we ask: Am I properly unitizing the Seven Emanations of Righteousness which have been entrusted into my hands? Have I merited service to HaShem and His people? Tehillim 82 reveals our options in this regard. Are my judgments and actions emerging from the Kingdom of Love? Are my judgments and actions fair and balanced to all concerned? Do my judgments and actions show mercy to those considered to be of less esteem? Am I fair and impartial towards others? Do I show greater care for the affairs of those who can repay me in some way, or do I have less concern for those who are orphaned, widowed or poor, either literally or metaphorically? Do I decree my judgments and actions as blessings to the needy and those seeking my help, or do I seek to establish my fame, respect, notoriety, or bank account balance selling what has given freely to me from the Almighty? Do my judgments and actions increase the Light of the King or do they only deepen the darkness of consciousness of those who stand against the Love of Truth? Our King has declared: "Arise, Crowned Children of G-d, judge the earth [in righteousness], for all the nations are Your possession." Do I truly understand that all things are His Alone and that as His servant I serve at His pleasure?
Practice: Go over the previous contemplations and ensure that to the best of your ability you are elevating your actions and your consciousness as suggested. Establish your place in the here and now of Malchut. Maintain and daily increase your Torah observance and realzations acheived through your Hitbodedut. In this way increase your attachment to HaShem every day and be a Mench. And in all of your of interactions make the spreading of the loving-kindness of Chesed your goal and your foundation.
Day 44. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Two: Gevurah of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-four days, which are
six weeks and two days of the OmerKavanah: Having accepted your leadership potential and establishing your personal "kingdom" (as described at Psalm 82) you must be strong to continue on to completion. Strong in emunah, strong in Torah knowledge, strong in musar and ethics accept who you are in G-d's economy. Likewise establish your personal kingdom on the realizations of your Hitbodedut. Torah knowledge and personal prayer are both vital for the Soul. Even as a bird requires two wings to fly, so too we require the balance of Torah knowledge with hitbodedut, personal communion with G-d.
There are various kinds of emunah. There is emunah that is only in the heart. But a person must have so much emunah that it spreads to all his limbs. Thus the Kabalistic writings mention that when washing one's hands to eat bread, one should raise them towards the head in order to receive holiness. Your emunah must extend into your hands in order to believe that by raising them towards your head you receive holiness. Without emunah, it is a meaningless gesture, for "All your commandments are emunah" (Psalms 119:86).Practice: Determine to be strong in your study of Torah and in your prayer life. Stand firm in the 'kingdom' HaShem assigns to you. Such Strength requires discipline and self control. Only you can establish your foundation, so Arise! (Tehillim 82).
If you are strong in your emunah, you will eventually come to understand what you believe in. The stronger your emunah, the greater your understanding will become. At the outset you have no option but to have emunah, because you cannot understand the matter, but through emunah you will come to understand it.
There will then be new, more exalted levels that will still be hidden from you and beyond your ability to understand. Here again you will have to make the effort to believe. You must always start with emunah regarding the levels that are as yet hidden from you, but eventually you will understand them as well. This is an ongoing process. Your emunah must be so strong that it spreads to every one of your limbs. This emunah will bring you to true wisdom - Likutey Moharan I, 91
Day 45. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Three: Tiferet of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-five days, which are
six weeks and three days of the OmerKavanah: Scripture tells us: "How welcome on the mountain are the footsteps of the herald announcing happiness, heralding good fortune, announcing victory, telling Zion, “Your G-d is King!” -- Yeshiyahu 52:7. One who is established through the clear emmanation of Malchut with the holy inspiration of Tiferet wields beutiful spiritual energies. Contacting with such energies elevates one spiritually and manifests the Beauty of the Soul.
We are not called to Saints but to be pious humans dwelling here in material reality. This life is often a struggle. But consider these words of Rebbe Nachman:
When I was a boy I was very afraid of death. Exactly when I was most frightened of dying, I would ask God that I should die sanctifying His name. This lasted a long time - I don't remember how long - but I know it was a long time, maybe a year. I would constantly make the same request. There was not a prayer or conversation with God in which I did not ask to leave this world sanctifying His name. I was so afraid of death that it was like a self-sacrifice for me just to pray for what I was so afraid of. In order to serve God, you must overcome precisely the thing that preoccupies you the most. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might" (Deuteronomy 6:5) . The Talmud ( Berachot 61b) says that "with all your soul " teaches that one should give one ' s very life for God. "With all your might " means that the same applies to one's money - because some people value their wealth more than their lives! - Sichot Haran #57Practive: Seek association with the tzadikim, the lovers of HaShem who dwell in the Light of His Presence. Will yourself to be counted among their numbers by manifesting the beauty that is within you for this is the Beauty of HaShem.
Day 46. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Four: Netzach of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-six days, which are
six weeks and four days of the OmerKavanah: Through your contemplations and the application of your spiritual practices during the omer count you have doubtless achieved greater success in your goals. You are to be commended! Yes! However, allow others to commend you if they feel you are deserving. Even then, place little more stock in their praises than the satisfaction of a job done to the best of your ability. It is unseemly to praise oneself and it is foolish to believe that one has attained whatever merit one may have without the help and mercy of HaShem.
Yes, through your spiritual and material efforts and increased self discipline you have attained certain successes, but will you now throw the merit away for the sake of a little prestige or temporary human honors? The endurance that you now exhibit when pursuing your well formulated plans for the benefit of your 'kingdom' is itself the gift of G-d, not something you have earned and can lay claim to. Consider the example of Iyov or Job. Well be skipping about beginning at Iyov 34:1:
Now Elihu raised his voice and said, "You wise men, hearken to my words, and you knowledgeable ones, give ear to me. For the ear tests words, as the palate tastes food. Let us choose judgment for ourselves; let us know among ourselves what is good. For Job said, 'I am righteous, and G-d has deprived me of my right [To prove my words, says Rashi]... For he said, 'A man derives no benefit when he desires [to go] with G-d.' Therefore, men of understanding, hearken to me; far be it for G-d [to commit] wickedness or for the Almighty to [commit] injustice... For His eyes are upon man's ways, and He sees all his steps [and his intentions]. There is neither darkness nor the shadow of death wherein workers of iniquity may hide...On this final verse Rashi note, regarding the word "Therefore...": Therefore since I merited to see Your Shechinah."
"Then the Lord answered Job from the tempest and said, "Who is this who gives dark counsel, with words, without knowledge? Now gird your loins like a man, and I will ask you and [you will] tell Me. Where were you when I founded the earth? Tell if you know understanding. On what were its sockets sunk, or who laid its cornerstone? When the morning stars sing together, and all the angels of G-d shout? When I made the cloud its raiment and the dark cloud its wrapping? And broke for it My prescribed limit, and placed a bar and doors?...
Do you understand [everything] until the breadths of the earth? Tell if you know it all. Which is the way to [the place] where the light dwells, and as for darkness-where is its place? That you should take it to its border and that you should understand the paths of its house?... Can you tie the chains of the Pleiades or loose the straps of Orion?... "Will one who contends with the Almighty make himself master? He who argues with G-d, let him answer it."
Now Job answered the Lord and said, "Behold I am of small account; what shall I answer You? I put my hand to my mouth. I said one [thing] and I will not answer, and two, and I will not add.
Now the Lord answered Job from a tempest and said, "Now gird your loins like a man; I will ask you and [you] tell Me. Will you even make void My judgment? Will you condemn Me in order that you be justified? Do you have an arm [like power and strength] like G-d, or do you thunder like Him with [your] voice? Bedeck yourself now with pride and excellence, and clothe yourself with glory and beauty.
Then Job answered G-d and said, "I knew that You can do everything and no design is restrained from You. Who is this who hides counsel without knowledge? Therefore, I told but I did not understand; they are hidden from me and I did not know. Hearken now and I will speak; I will ask You and [You] inform me. I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now, my eye has seen You. Therefore I despise [my life], and I will be consoled on dust and ashes."See this? Job was indeed a great man of emunah, power, and action! In this world Iyov accomplished many great things. Because of this, HaShem lead him to next stage. Iyov knew the teachings, he was fluent in the language, he was wealthy and powerful, but it was in his mind! His intellect only. Through his hardships he merited humility, teshuvah, and true understanding. Only then did he merit to experience the Divine Presence!
Practice: Consider what you desire for your 'kingdom'. Do not simply accept things as they are. Get involved! Devote yourself to Tikun Olam, the rectification of all that is broken. Where will you go from here? Be assured of your solid foundation, develop your plans, stand tall and firm, and move forward with the strength of enduring emunah. With your faith firmly established in HaShem anything is possible! Transform your world into Gan Eden!
Day 47. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Five: Hod of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-seven days, which are
six weeks and five days of the OmerWhen we consider the amount of independence HaShem grants compared to our complete dependance on Him we are both humbled and awed. Humbled because we have nothing to offer and awed because He offers everything to us.
Practice: Be consciously aware of HaShem's limitless mercy. Give Him thanks for everything that happens in your life, both for the seemingly positive and the seemingly negative understanding your intimate relationship with the Holy One.
Day 48. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Six: Yesod of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-eight days, which are
six weeks and six days of the OmerKavanah: The end of your endeavors is in sight! (for now anyway!). Your work and life choices have brought you to this point, to this 'kingdom'. Consider your growth and experiences over the omer period of the previous 48 days since Pesach. Has your self respect increased? Has your private time with HaShem (Hitbodedut) been expanded? Has your consciousness been elevated to more pure levels due to your endeavours? Take some time to ponder such questions. If the answer is no, ask yourself why. If your answer is yes, ask yourself if this progress will continue and increase in the days, weeks, months and years to come. Determine that they will! Standing firmly on Yesod pause to breath in the air that HaShem grants to you with gratitude. Without Him there would be no air! Without Him your lungs would not be able to take the air in. Without HaShem you would... not be! Reflect on HaShem's amazing Loving Kindness (Chesed) to you! Know that because of Him your goals will be reached, maybe quickly maybe slowly, but reached. In quiet contemplation thank HaShem with all your heart for the innumerable gifts and kindnesses. See if you can count these! How great is His loving kindness! So with firm determination attach yourself to Him so that you not only "believe" in Him but you "know" Him. You not only believe in Elohim (G-d of gods) as a concept, but "KNOW" HaShem as Personal Reality.
Yesod establishes your Soul with the Power of contact, connection and communication with external reality as it "spills over" into your kingdom of Sefirah Malchut. Yesod operates as the foundation or cornerstone of Emunah and Righteousness! Choose to allow Righteousness to be manifested into your daily life and to fill your kingdom with its Love and Light! Through Emanation Yesod the Soul becomes grounded and discovers its balanced union between the structured earth plane (Malchut) and the transcendent Eternality with HaShem (Keter) through the Secret or Hidden Doorway of Da'at. This Door is discovered in the hearts of those with Emunah.
Practice: Stand tall and confident that you have done all you could to bring about the changes you desired for your kingdom. If not "all you could," then "all you did!" You have done much! You are a good ruler of your kingdom, but let's be honest, you could be better! You are loyal to HaShem but... you could be more loyal! Do not condemn yourself for perceived failures. Rather, KNOW that you have bought and bring forth much that is Good! Do you doubt this? Consider these words of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov:
You must search for the good in yourself.
When you start looking deep within yourself, you may think there is no good in you at all. You may feel you are full of evil: a negative voice inside you may try to drive you into depression. But you must not allow yourself to fall into depression. Search until you find some little good in you. For how could it be that you never did anything good in your whole life?
When you start to examine the good you have done, you may see many flaws. Maybe you did what you did for the wrong reasons and with the wrong attitude. Even so, how could it be that your mitzvah or good deed contains no good at all? It must contain some element of good.
You must search and search until you find some good point within you to give you new life and happiness. When you discover the good that is still inside you, you literally swing the scales from guilt to merit. This will enable you to return to God. The good you find inside you will give you new life and bring joy to your soul.
Having found one good point, you must continue searching until you find another. Even if you think this good point is also full of flaws, you must still search for some good in it. In the same way, you must continue finding more and more good points.
This is how songs are made! In essence, music is made by sifting the good from the bad. The musician has to find the "good spirit" - the good air - and reject the bad. A musical instrument is a vessel containing air. The musician produces the sounds by causing the air to vibrate. His task is to move his hands on the instrument in such a way as to produce good spirit, "good vibrations", while avoiding the "bad vibrations" - the dissonant winds of gloom and depression.
When a person refuses to allow himself to fall into despair but instead vitalizes himself by seeking out and gathering together his positive points, this produces melodies, and he can then pray, sing and give thanks to God.
When a person recognizes the wrong he has done and how grossly materialistic and impure he is, he can become so depressed that he is completely incapable of praying. He simply cannot open his mouth to God. This is because of the deep sorrow and heaviness that overcome him when he sees his overwhelming distance from God.
But finding your good points can give you new life. Even if you know you have done wrong and caused damage and that you are far from God, you must search until you find the good that is still inside you. This will give you new life and make you truly happy. You are certainly entitled to feel the greatest joy over every good point you find in yourself, because each good point comes from the holy soul within you. The new life and joy you will gain from this path will enable you to pray, sing and give thanks to God -- Likutey Moharan I, 282Are you a failure? No! Have you done everything right? Offered only your very best? Probably not. But you made the attempt! No doubt your gift was finer than most because most people offer nothing to the King but grief! So purpose to increase you giving and service to HaShem day by day hereafter as He blesses you. KNOW that you did not achieve this level, this kingdom, on your own. HaShem lead you here! Since you now realize that He led here, be CERTAIN that He will continue to lead you onward! This is where you right now, and who can imagine where you may be tomorrow! IF you don't give up the good struggle.
You stand as a prince or princess of HaShem (Psalm 82)! Know that more remains to be done but acknowledge that much has already been achieved with His help. HaShem has brought you this point and He will lead you ever forward until the goal has been achieved. Let this certainty spill over into every part of your 'kingdom'. With this assurance proclaim loudly and joyfully for all to hear: BARUCH HASHEM! My G-d Lives! AM Y'ISRAEL! The People known as Y'israel live on and we will never fall entirely because HaShem is our Strength and our Shield!
Day 49. Week Seven: Malchut: Sovereignty, Leadership
Day Seven: Malchut of MalchutBaruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b'mitzvotav vitzivanu al sefirat ha-omer.
(Blessed are you, HaShem our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us through His mitzvot and commanded us to count the omer)Ha-yom sh’nayim v’arbaim yom, shehaym
shi-sha shavuot ba-omer (or la-omer)
Today is forty-nine days, which are
seven weeks of the OmerYOU RULE!
Well, HaShem rules, but it is His Will that His sons and daughters occupy themselves with the kingdoms allotted to them and you counted the Omer and pondered a few o its mystical truth and then, you applied them to you life.These kingdoms are the lives and associations of each and every Jew!
Tehillim 82:
מִזְמ֗וֹר לְאָ֫סָ֥ף אֱֽלֹהִ֗ים נִצָּ֥ב בַּעֲדַת־אֵ֑ל בְּקֶ֖רֶב אֱלֹהִ֣ים יִשְׁפֹּֽט׃
A psalm of Asaph. God stands in the divine assembly; among the divine beings He pronounces judgment.
עַד־מָתַ֥י תִּשְׁפְּטוּ־עָ֑וֶל וּפְנֵ֥י רְ֝שָׁעִ֗ים תִּשְׂאוּ־סֶֽלָה׃
How long will you judge perversely, showing favor to the wicked?Selah.
שִׁפְטוּ־דַ֥ל וְיָת֑וֹם עָנִ֖י וָרָ֣שׁ הַצְדִּֽיקוּ׃
Judge the wretched and the orphan, vindicate the lowly and the poor,
פַּלְּטוּ־דַ֥ל וְאֶבְי֑וֹן מִיַּ֖ד רְשָׁעִ֣ים הַצִּֽילוּ׃
rescue the wretched and the needy; save them from the hand of the wicked.
לֹ֤א יָֽדְע֨וּ ׀ וְלֹ֥א יָבִ֗ינוּ בַּחֲשֵׁכָ֥ה יִתְהַלָּ֑כוּ יִ֝מּ֗וֹטוּ כָּל־מ֥וֹסְדֵי אָֽרֶץ׃
They neither know nor understand, they go about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth totter.
אֲֽנִי־אָ֭מַרְתִּי אֱלֹהִ֣ים אַתֶּ֑ם וּבְנֵ֖י עֶלְי֣וֹן כֻּלְּכֶֽם׃
I had taken you for divine beings, sons of the Most High, all of you;
אָ֭כֵן כְּאָדָ֣ם תְּמוּת֑וּן וּכְאַחַ֖ד הַשָּׂרִ֣ים תִּפֹּֽלוּ׃
but you shall die as men do, fall like any prince.
קוּמָ֣ה אֱ֭לֹהִים שָׁפְטָ֣ה הָאָ֑רֶץ כִּֽי־אַתָּ֥ה תִ֝נְחַ֗ל בְּכָל־הַגּוֹיִֽם׃
Arise, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are Your possession.
Practice Rule Your Kingdom Wisely!
Naaseh Venishma
"Everything G‑d has said, we will do."HERE ENDS THE COUNTING OF THE OMER!
Got Questions or Comments?
Let me know* © Rabbi Shlomo Nachman, April 02, 2018 (last update April 24.2024)
Be the Blessing you were created to be
And
Don't let the perfect defeat the good
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