That which can be known extends according to its form.
That which is simple becomes all forms without end.
And so, we find ourselves in a world of an infinite myriad of opposites, for it extends out of the most unknowable and simple.
From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory; words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. Subscribe and get your dose daily. To order Rabbi Freeman’s latest book, Wisdom to Heal the Earth, click here.
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Tzvi Freeman
Thornhill, Ontario
November 3, 2008
Re: explanation
Start with the question of the ancient philosophers: If everything starts with a perfect oneness. how do we end up with this multitude of forms?
So the Maharal of Prague answers: On the contrary, if the beginning of all things would have some form to it (in which case, it would not be a perfect oneness), everything that would come out from it would reflect that form. There would be no opposites in the world and the diversity of its creatures would be limited.
But since everything begins with a perfect oneness that transcends all form (therefore totally unknowable), we find ourselves in a world where for any one form of being there is an opposite.
Think of a simple point versus a shape. The shape will extend according to its form and the number of dimensions it occupies. The simple point which occupies no space can be extended in infinite directions within infinite dimensions.
Although the source of this idea is the Maharal, I presented it as part of the Rebbe's thoughts, since it appears as one of the fundamental, underlying themes in his maamarim and talks.
If you need more explanation, just holler.
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Rich
Knoxville, TN
November 2, 2008
explanation
Rabbi,
Could you unpack this one a little more. I have a hunch about what it means, but I want to have a thorough understanding.
I truly appreciate the wisdom from Daily Dose. It is a side of Jewish thought which I never knew existed until a few years ago. Now I look forward to receiving them, as well as other online readings. They have been both inspiring and eye-opening.
Thank you
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So true; but then what?
Sure, be simple and small; but then what?
Easy: Do His Will, Torahv'Mitzvos. But where are the prescriptions for the beginners and for the more advanced? And are there goals, or is it just "action".
Giving daily examples and connecting them to your beautiful big, short pictures could help.