"Seeing Gd", Part 2

Hi,

"All of us agree that we were forced to describe Gd in physical terms and to speak of Him with the attributes of created beings, in order to enable people to accept the existence of the Creator. The books of the prophets expressed this to people using physical terms, which are close to their minds and understanding. Were they to say it in the appropriate form, using spiritual terms and matters, we would understand neither the words not the matter, and we could not serve something we did not know…"

(Rabbeinu Bachya ibn Paquda, Chovot haLevavot, Shaar haYichud 10)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Understand the mitzvah!

Hi,

"The deeds of a person who does not understand the mitzvot and teachings of Gd are not dedicated to the Name of Gd. Since he does not understand the ways of service in the roots of the teachings, he certainly will not understand how they can become complete, in dedicating his heart to Gd while performing them. His every deed of service will be intended for something other than Gd, for he will be as though he was uncertain in the truth of his obligation, not knowing what dedication of is heart in performing them for Gd will require. As our sages said, 'The boor cannot be afraid of sinning, and an unlearned person cannot be pious.'"

(Rabbeinu Bachya, Chovot haLevavot, Shaar Yichud haMaaseh 4)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

The tougher battle - self-control

Hi,

"They said regarding a pious man that he encountered men returning from a war against enemies. After a mighty battle they had taken spoils, and he said to them: You have returned from the minor war bearing spoils, now prepare for the major war.

"They asked: What is the major war? He replied: The war of the inclinations and its soldiers."

(Rabbeinu Bachya, Chovot haLevavot 5:5)

Have a great day,
Mordechai