Torah in its Entirety

Perhaps one of the best illustrations of the significance and utility of the revelation of pnimiyus haTorah can be drawn from this very chapter. Having elaborated upon the Torah’s multiple elements and layers as they are explained in classic sources, it is the interwoven chassidic flavor that allows this discussion to arrive at a general appreciation for the Torah as a whole.

The clarity provided by the soul of the Torah enables us to see the entirety of Torah as a single expression of the Divine Wisdom and purpose. Pnimiyus haTorah brings to light the inner harmony that exists between all layers and elements of Torah and existence.163 Deeper yet, it illuminates the relationship of the Jew with the Torah, allowing the Torah’s practical instructions to be a window into the very core of the Jew’s identity.

Interestingly, this harmonious perspective granted by pnimiyus haTorah is actually referenced in a statement of our Sages in the Midrash and Talmud Yerushalmi. Discussing the value of Torah study by an individual who has forsaken even the most basic tenets of Jewish faith, it is stated:

“The luminary within the Torah will return him to the good path.”164

This linguistic expression of “the luminary within the Torah” is explained by the classic commentaries as the secrets of theTorah.165 This teaching thus indicates that even if one’s spiritual state leaves much to be desired and a person lacks all appreciation of the Torah as being G‑dly, the perspective provided by pnimiyus haTorah, the Torah’s inner luminary, will be a source of healing and reconnection.166

This illuminative effect of the Torah’s inner dimension certainly underscores the significance of the broad revelation of pnimiyus haTorah, which grants every Jew the ability to see the entire Torah for what it truly is. It is the complete purview of both the body and soul of Torah that brings to light the true nature of Torah as a single expression of Divine Wisdom.167

Torah’s True Character

Having discussed the Torah’s various themes and the process through which its inner dimension was revealed, we can now sum up several key points regarding the true character of the Torah:

• The role of the Torah in the life of the Jew is most essential.

• The Torah’s guidance expresses the innermost Will and desire of G‑d.

• The Giving of the Torah at Sinai was the turning point in which the inner Will of G‑d became relevant and tangible in daily life.

• The tangible application of the mitzvos in daily life synchronizes the Jew with the Divine purpose.

• The Torah illuminates the true identity and character of the Jew, allowing one to be fully dedicated to G‑d alone.

• Both the body and soul of Torah are integral to the very core of Torah.

• Although the esoteric dimension of Torah is naturally unknown, it will ultimately be fully revealed.

• This has been a lengthy process over the course of many generations in which the Torah’s soul has gradually become more integrated within our consciousness.