Tzava'at Harivash 31

It is related of the Baal Shem Tov that he would look into sacred texts and then answer those who sought his counsel. In this context note his interpretation of the Midrash that states that God concealed the original light of the first day of creation: the light was hidden in the Torah (see Zohar Chadash, Ruth, 85a-b; Sefer Habahir, par. 147-9), and by means of it one is able to see things that are not normally perceived. (Degel Machaneh Ephrayim, on Genesis 1:4)

The version of this section in Likkutim Yekarim (sect. 11-12) is preceded by the following words: “As you subdue all your thoughts to the Creator, blessed be He, He will inspire your thoughts with [the idea] of what you need to do, as it is said, ‘Cast your burden upon God [and He will sustain you.]’ (Psalms 55:23). R. Israel Baal Shem Tov said that when you are attached [in a state of deveikut] to the Creator, blessed be He, and a thought comes to you about whatever it may be, then things are most likely as it occurred in your thought. This is a bit of ru’ach hakodesh (holy spirit; a prophetic spirit).”

God relates to man “measure for measure” (cf. below, sect. 112. 116 and 142). Thus “if you behave haphazardly with Me, I, too, will deal with you haphazardly” (Leviticus 26:22-24, and see there also verses 21, 27-28, and 40-41).

All things in this world contain “holy sparks” that must be elevated to their Divine source. This is achieved by using all things for their intended purpose in context of man’s service of God. When permissible foods, garments or objects come your way, it is an indication that they contain “holy sparks” related to your soul, i.e., that it is meant for you to elevate them. (See below, sect. 109.) The punishment for relating to God haphazardly is that you will be deprived of this opportunity.