By Ari Goldwag
Path of the Righteous
The third level for inspiring carefulness, for the general populace, is an understanding of the concept of reward and punishment.
We discuss the first two levels of inspiring oneself to carefulness. The first is for those who are more elevated in their desire for perfection, and the second is for those who are a level below.
We explore the different points where carefulness is necessary, at the time of action, and not at the time of action.
Carefulness, or watchfulness is the next of the character traits, and it involves an awareness of one's actions, and whether they are leading him on the right path toward closeness to Hashem.
Torah is what brings a person to watchfulness. We discuss the concept that only one who has Torah knowledge can truly overcome the evil inclination.
We explore the five obligations of the verse, and the nine levels that the sages enumerate which parallel the five.
The Chosid continues to explain the purpose of Man in the world. He mentions a mistaken view of reality, which he unravels, and proceeds to explain the truth.
The Chosid begins to explain the purpose of Man in the world. This is dependent on a proper understanding of Man's role in reality, in contrast to all of the other aspects of Creation.
The Chosid speaks of the fact that there are very few who expend the effort to understand this most important wisdom of spiritual perfection, love and fear of Hashem.
The Chosid explains that the importance of Fear and Love of Hashem are stressed in the verse, and they are also essential to the proper observance of all the other mitzvos. They therefore deserve equal, if not greater study.
The intellectual admits that Love and Fear are important, but posits that they are straightforward and simple, and do not require deep study. The spiritual one challenges this presumption.
The 'Chacham' - intellectual - explains the general topics of his learning. The Chosid challenges him as to where the heart comes into the picture.
Seder Havikuach is the first edition of Mesilas Yesharim, which involves a conversation between the 'Chacham' - intellectual - and the 'Chosid' - spiritual. They begin their discussion by trying to understand what each one is accomplishing.
When a person reaches the level of Holiness, he must put in a certain level of effort, but ultimately it is a gift. At this stage, the person raises up all of his physical actions to becoming completely spiritual.
The path to acquire this awareness called 'fear of sin' is by contemplating the fact that Hashem is everywhere and is constantly aware of every deed, great or small.
We continue to discuss the great respect one should have for Hashem's honor, and the constant worry that the righteous have, lest they do something against that honor.
We discuss the three categories of fear - fear of punishment, fear of Hashem's greatness and honor, and finally, fear of any semblance of sin.
We continue to discuss the methods one can employ to acquire humility. They are specific humble behaviors, as well as contemplating certain humble thoughts.
We discuss the methods one can employ to acquire humility. They are specific humble behaviors, as well as contemplating certain humble thoughts.
One who wishes to develop the trait of humility should evade honor and show honor to all those he meets.
There are many different areas where one can develop humility. We discuss the concept of bearing embarrassment.
Once one has developed an inner sense of humility, one's actions must reflect this at every level.
We continue to discuss the concept of humility, and how one deals with feelings of pride.
We discuss the concept of humility, and how one deals with feelings of pride.
We discuss the things that aid a person in acquiring righteousness, and those things that distance one from true righteousness.
One needs to examine the long term results of one's actions, as the final result is the main determining factor as to whether the action should be done.
When one is trying to walk the path of righteous, one must be carefully balanced and thought out, so as not to cause more harm than good.
The three preconditions of Righteousness are proper intentions, accountability for actions and trusting in Hashem.
One who wishes to be a true Chassid must focus his intent in prayer and good deeds that they be a merit and atonement for the people of his generation.
We continue with the third branch, standing up for Hashem's honor, preventing a desecration of His name.
The second branch of love of Hashem is Simcha, joy. We begin the third branch, standing up for Hashem's honor.
The first branch of love of Hashem is Dveikus, cleaving to God.
We complete the idea of fear and respect for Hashem, and begin the concept of love of Hashem.
Reaching the level of righteousness includes showing the proper respect for Hashem and His commandments.
Inculcating the attribute of kindness is an essential feature of true righteousness. We also discuss the correct approach to our interactions with Hashem.
We look at the behavior of numerous sages who were exceedingly careful about meticulous observance of mitzvos.
We begin to study the first subcategory of righteousness - exacting performance of mitzvos.
We learn the difference between true righteousness and false righteousness.
This chapter discusses how one acquires purity and what takes away from purity.
We continue our discussion of the concept of purity, a lofty level where all actions are cleansed of any negative intent, even the good actions one does.
We begin our discussion of the concept of purity, a lofty level where all actions are cleansed of any negative intent, even the good actions one does.
Acquiring the trait of separation involves a deep meditation on the emptiness of physical pleasure, as well as removing oneself from the company of those whose goal in life is to acquire such pleasure.
We explore the three categories of separation.
We explore the places where it is inappropriate to separate oneself from the physical.