Applied Kabbalah

An address on the Yahrzeit of Rabbi Isaac Luria, the Arizal

The Arizal revealed the secrets of the Kabbalah in a way unprecedented before his time. Based upon his teachings, Chasidism further elucidated the Kabbalah, making it relevant and accessible to all. The Arizal’s Yahrzeit, then, is a most auspicious time to connect to Torah’s inner wisdom.

Chabad Chassidism in particular emphasizes the translation of Kabbalistic study into action. Its lucid explanations enable Torah’s loftiest and deepest secrets to have a practical affect on one’s animal soul and on the animal-instincts of the body — so much so, that the physical heel itself runs to fulfill a Mitzvah, because it is permeated with G-dly wisdom and Divine light.

“Torah’s secrets are entrusted only to one with a concerned heart.” At the same time, however, a Jew is commanded at all times: “Serve the Lord your G-d with joy and a happy heart” — with revealed joy, as expressed by the Arizal’s own name: “Yitzchak — laughter.