Chapter VI

The various branches of knowledge are progressive, and Torah knowledge is loftier than knowledge dealing with the natural world. Yet Torah knowledge, though G-dly, is only an emanation of His Blessed and Infinite Essence.

The order of the various branches of knowledge is such that not only is one category lower than the other, but by properly understanding a lower branch of knowledge, one can, to a limited degree, understand a higher branch. The ability to move from a lower category to a higher one varies according to the branch involved. In no way can one liken the understanding of the Infinite One that is gained through studying natural wisdom to the comprehension of Him gained through Torah study. Still and all, by examining the lower branches of knowledge one can, to a limited degree, gain a deeper understanding of the loftier branches. A case in point: a wise man who lacks prior knowledge of the Torah will understand the wisdom of G-dliness to a much lesser degree.

The above illustrates how all branches of knowledge are interrelated. Though the lower branches can in no way be compared to the higher ones, the relationship is such that knowledge of a lower branch can greatly enhance the comprehension of a higher branch.

One may postulate that the benefit of comprehending a higher branch through a lower one comes not simply because of their interrelationship, but because when one understands a lower branch it causes him to become more intellectually refined, which in turn enables him to comprehend more profound and sophisticated kinds of knowledge. Every matter which a person comprehends broadens and refines his mind, enabling him to grasp ever more profound concepts.

It is true that comprehending a lower branch of knowledge refines and broadens one's intellect, consequently enabling one to comprehend more profound branches of knowledge. But it is also true that a lower branch of knowledge is a preface to a higher one. Not only does the lower branch refine the brain, it also serves as an introduction to the higher branches. This is due to the inner connection between all branches of knowledge.

The same is true within each particular branch of knowledge. Just as there are lower and higher branches of knowledge, so too within each branch can be found higher and lower, greater and smaller.

This then is the meaning of hishtalshelus, the progressive and orderly descent from one level to the next.

In summary: All branches of wisdom, from the lowest form of natural science to the highest branch of G-dliness, are connected. Each branch refines the brain, enabling a person to understand the higher branches more deeply. Knowledge of Torah with proper reverence is a step towards the understanding of G-d and G-dliness.