ב"ה
Samach Vov: Hashamayim Mesaprim

The Metaphor of Hide and Seek
The relationship between G-d and the Jewish people is depicted through a parable depicting the father of a dearly beloved son. In order to test (and reveal) the depth of his child’s love for him, the father creates the false impression that he has abandoned his son altogether.

Ahavah Rabbah (Great Love of G-d)
Even if human intellect and emotion cannot themselves elicit what is described as "great love" (Ahavah Rabba), yet intense devotional exertion elicits a gift from G-d, allowing the individual to transcend the limitations of their faculties, and opening the gate even to this lofty experience.

Collective Redemption
Thus far we have discussed, in detail, the underlying meaning of “I remember to you the love of your youth” and its significance for the individual achievement of personal redemption (unity with the Creator). In this class, we will consider its implications for the Jews as a nation in the context of both the redemption from the Egypt and, ultimately, the final redemption.

Makifim of Seder Hishtalshalus
In general, there are two types of 'makifim' (transcendent lights), those that are “close” to that which they encompass (relative makifim) and those that are “distant” (absolute makifim). Metaphorically, these can be compared to a garment and a house respectively. We'll first consider the “close” makif.

The Relative ‘Makif’ (Transcendent Lights)
In general, there are two types of 'makifim' (transcendent lights), those that are “close” to that which they encompass (relative makifim) and those that are “distant” (absolute makifim). Metaphorically, these can be compared to a garment and a house respectively. We'll first consider the “close” makif.
Related Topics
- Maamar (110)