At the beginning of ch. 8, the Rebbe Rashab resumes the abstract discussion of bittul and unity as the hallmarks of holiness, and yeshus and discord as the hallmarks of kelipah. However, in the middle of that chapter, the Rebbe shifts focus from the abstract to the personal, and demonstrates how these concepts play out in interpersonal relationships, and in the avodah of every individual. He explains that yeshus is the cause for baseless interpersonal hatred: it creates senseless friction and tears people apart from one another for no reason at all. This kind of animosity arises not because one has been harmed by someone else, but simply because each person is so preoccupied with his own self that he cannot make room for another. He finds it difficult to tolerate the very existence of the other person.
Sadly, such friction and intolerance are widespread, existing even among those who devote themselves to Torah study and avodah — lofty pursuits in which unity and cooperation would be so profoundly valuable. After all, it is precisely by collaborating, and hearing differing ideas, that one’s understanding of a Torah concept is broadened and his appreciation deepened. Moreover, when people communicate, and share their struggles and successes in avodah, they help each other advance in their respective spiritual goals.
Unfortunately, instead of working with one another, sharing, and being open to suggestions for self-improvement, people often fall into the trap of their own self-image. This makes it impossible for them to appreciate the input of others and causes them to find a host of reasons to belittle others and look down upon them.
