Tanya- SoulWords

Returning to the metaphor of the wick, the oil, and the flame (ch. 35) we explain how it is that we reveal G-d's Presence in this world.

All forms of love studied until now are from the "right side" which represents "chesed." This unique love, "the love like gold," however, is from the "left side" which represents "gevurah." It is a fiery desire to leave the body, which is ultimately redirected back to the body in order to do G-d's will in […]

In order to create finite worlds, G-d concealed His infinite light through the process of tzimtzum (Ch. 48.) If G-d contracted His light for us, all the more so must we feel moved to set aside our own comforts for Him (Ch. 49.)

Arousing mercy for the plight of the G-dly soul is a means for generating love for G-d (Ch. 45.) "As water reflects a face so does the heart of a man to his fellow" (Mishlei 27) describes the reciprocal nature of love. When one thinks about G-d's love for us shown at the time of […]

The lower level of awe is necessary in order to do mitzvos; the higher level of awe comes as a result of doing mitzvos. "Ahavah rabbah" (great love) is a gift from Above; "ahavas olam" (worldly love) is developed by meditating on creation (Ch. 43.) The love called "my Soul I desire you" is loving […]