Shavuatov Bitachon of the day ❤️
Listening to Rabbi Farhi’s class helps us understand that we should perform mitzvot because Hashem asks us to, not because of the ramifications or the meaning behind them. When we perform a mitzvah, we act as an extension and manifestation of Hashem, our source of existence, both spiritually and existentially.
When we perform a mitzvah, we act as an extension and manifestation of the One who willed and commanded it. By fulfilling Hashem's commands, we bond with and become part of something infinitely greater than ourselves.
Hashem wanted this to happen, and by accepting His will and making it your own, you attach yourself to it. In performing the Miitzvot, you become a true embodiment and reflection of Hashem in this world. This is why being commanded is infinitely greater than acting spontaneously. When you do something, even something good, without being commanded, you are merely reflecting yourself, your personal form of avodah, which is self contained, limited, and disconnected from Hashem. Instead of manifesting something transcendent, you only manifest yourself. This realization underscores that you are neither the center of the world nor the source of your own existence, Hashem is.
It is very hard to do a mitzvah just because Hashem said so. We are always asking why, always seeking the meaning of the mitzvah to connect with it and understand its purpose. It's challenging to perform a mitzvah solely because Hashem commanded it, without grasping the meaning behind it.
I believe rabbis provide numerous explanations for the mitzvot that Hashem asks us to perform so that we can better understand and relate to them.
When I arrived in Brooklyn, it was mind blowing to me of all the things that the family that welcomed me were doing.
During my first Shabbat experience, I found myself filled with curiosity about every single movement and ritual. I have a natural inclination to ask questions and seek understanding, so this was like a dream come true for me. I wanted to comprehend the significance of each step, from Kiddush and the blessings of the children to Netilah and the prohibition of talking in between, to Hamotzi and beyond. The depth and complexity of it all fascinated me greatly. Without having my questions answered, I don't think I would have been able to truly connect with the experience. As someone who wasn't previously observant, having that information and understanding was essential for me to establish a meaningful connection between the mitzvot and Hashem. It wasn't enough for me to simply perform the mitzvot because Hashem commanded them; I wasn’t connected to Hashem yet, I didn’t have that wisdom, I needed that knowledge and connection to truly appreciate their significance.
Even after years of learning and my unwavering faith in Hashem, I still find it challenging to perform a mitzvah if it hasn't been adequately explained to me. I seek that additional support not because I prioritize myself, but because it enables me to elevate the mitzvah and reaffirm my belief in Ein Od Milvado (there is only one Gd).
May we all fulfill our mitzvahs with the understanding that Hashem has commanded us to do so. Amen 🙏 We exist on this Earth solely because Hashem has chosen it to be so.
Wishing you all a wonderful day ❤️