Daily Tanya Shabbos 20th Elul Igeres Hakodesh 15 Part 4: Serving Hashem with the Sefiros

20^th Elul

🧠 The Metaphor of the Lower Soul

• The concepts described are metaphorical in nature.
• They pertain to the lower, intellectual aspect of the human soul, which is influenced by a mixture of spiritual forces.
• This level of the soul can engage in moral and spiritual development, but it does not reflect the ultimate spiritual truth.

🔥 The Divine Essence of the Higher Soul

• In absolute truth, the higher, divine soul—an actual extension of Godliness—expresses all emotional attributes solely in service of the Divine.
• Its inclination toward kindness arises from a profound love for God and an intense desire to connect with Him.
• As the sages teach, true connection with God is achieved by emulating His attributes.

💪 Gevurah in Avodah

• The attribute of discipline manifests in:
  • Administering justice in accordance with Torah law.
  • Exercising self-control and sanctifying oneself even in areas that are technically permissible.

• Establishing personal boundaries and safeguards out of reverence for God, to avoid spiritual missteps.

👑 Tiferes in Avodah – Beautifying Hashem and His Torah

• One should strive to glorify God and His teachings through all forms of beauty and refinement.
• This includes engaging deeply with Divine praise through:
  • Intellectual contemplation and focused thought.
  • Articulate and meaningful speech.

🛡️ Netzach in Avodah – Resilience in the Face of Opposition

• One must stand firm against any force that obstructs spiritual growth or connection with God.
• This includes opposing anything that diminishes the revelation of Divine glory in the world.
• Such efforts mirror the sacred battles fought by King David in defense of God’s honor.

🙇 Hod in Avodah – Reverence and Gratitude Toward Hashem

• One should bow in humility and express sincere gratitude to God:
  • Who sustains and brings all existence into being.
  • Before Him, all creation is nullified—utterly insignificant in comparison to His essence.
• Even if we cannot fully comprehend this truth, we affirm it with genuine acknowledgment.

🎁 Gratitude for His Kindness

• It is essential to thank God for all the goodness He has bestowed.
• Ingratitude is spiritually harmful and must be avoided.

🌟 Praising His Middos and Creations

• One should offer praise for God’s attributes and actions in both the spiritual and physical realms.
• These expressions of Divine will are infinitely praiseworthy, beautiful, and befitting His majesty.
• This reflects the concept of Divine splendor and grandeur.

🕯️ Yesod in Avodah – Tzaddik Yesod Olam

• The soul should be intimately bound to God, the Source of all life.
• This connection should be marked by longing, passion, and profound spiritual delight.

👑 Malchus and Kabbalas Ol in Avodah

• One must accept the yoke of Divine authority and commit to serving God.
• This service should resemble that of a loyal servant to his master—carried out with awe and reverence.