Samach Vav: uMikneh Rav, Part 11: The definitive feature of the עובד אלקים is self-transcendence.
The Oved Elokim is characterized not by what he accomplishes so much as how he accomplishes it. An individual could spend many hours in deep learning, expend a fortune in Tzedakah, or perform other Mitzvos with meticulous care and not qualify as an עובד אלקים , because all is within his natural capacity. The עובד אלקים drives himself beyond his natural or acquired capabilities.
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Dr. Yaakov Brawer is Professor Emeritus of the Faculty of Medicine at McGill University, and lectures on Neuroendocrinology and Chassidism. He is the author of two books on Chassidic philosophy, Something From Nothing and Eyes That See.
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