Electricity

An electric generation plant is usually built some distance from the city. For the energy to reach its users and provide useful function, it must be brought along power lines. These large cables must be wired correctly and the proper switches must be turned on.

A similar situation exists on a spiritual plane. Spiritual powers are hidden within every Jew. However, in order to reveal these powers so they can fulfill their purpose, the correct switch to turn these powers on must be found. That was the mission of the Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chassidus. He knew exactly where to find the switch within every Jew.

Each one of us should follow the same path when attempting to have a positive effect on a fellow Jew. If we use normal means, great effort is required. However, when we arouse the quintessential point, the “hidden switch,” within the person, the rest is accomplished by itself.

We can derive a further lesson from the way in which the power of electricity is hidden in nature. It cannot be perceived by any of the five senses. Only through its effects can its essence be revealed, yet this hidden power has the ability to dispel the darkness.

We find a similar manifestation in matters of spirituality. The hidden secrets of the Torah, as revealed through the teachings and way of life of Chassidus, are the light that brightens the darkness of materialism by illuminating the G-dliness that exists in physicality.

Students’ Yechidus with the Rebbe, 7 Adar 5720.
The entire transcript with the Rebbe’s emendations was
recently published under the title “Interview with the Rebbe…”
Igros Kodesh of the Rebbe, Vol. 8, p. 101