LRDTC.5/5 MADRUGUETE. EL KABOD EN LA KABALA, LA REVELACION DE LO OCULTO.

Introduction and Technical Updates

Session Overview

• The session begins with a warm welcome, emphasizing the abundance of information to be covered today.

• Participants are reminded to address any technical issues or questions they may have regarding the session.

• A reminder is given about payment procedures for those who do not have automated payments set up via PayPal.

Payment Instructions

• Manual payment instructions are reiterated for participants without automatic billing; they must use the original link for their monthly fees.

• Introduction of a new playlist feature tailored specifically for their group, simplifying access to relevant materials.

Discussion on Current Events

Recent Events in Israel

• The speaker expresses gratitude for supportive messages received regarding recent tragic events in northern Israel.

• A description of the severity of recent attacks, highlighting unprecedented violence and its psychological impact on the community.

Reactions and Implications

• Discussion on Hezbollah's claims of responsibility following an attack, illustrating the complexities and cynicism involved in such conflicts.

• The speaker reflects on the humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing violence, noting over 100,000 displaced individuals due to conflict.

Reflections on Military Response

Critique of Government Actions

• Concerns are raised about Israel's military response being insufficient after prolonged attacks over nine months.

• The speaker calls for more decisive action from Israeli leadership rather than minimal responses to isolated incidents.

Cultural Context

• Acknowledgment of diverse cultural ties within Israel, particularly referencing Druze communities' loyalty and contributions to national defense.

Personal Insights and Future Plans

Personal Reflections

• The speaker shares personal thoughts on uncertainty regarding future events and travel plans amidst ongoing tensions.

Upcoming Sessions

Course Introduction and Importance of Respect

Overview of Course and Discounts

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of addressing any questions before starting the course, indicating a focus on participant engagement.

• Participants are encouraged to be open about their understanding of the material, with a recommendation to take the course seriously for deeper insights.

• A discount is offered for early registrants, highlighting that participants can access over 10 hours of valuable content at a reduced price.

• The speaker advises pacing the course completion, suggesting one session per week or every two weeks for effective learning.

• Information about accessing the course will be shared in the group chat after class, ensuring all participants have easy access.

Understanding "Cabod" (Respect)

• The concept of "cabod," or respect, is introduced as something that must be earned rather than demanded; it plays a crucial role in interpersonal relationships.

• The etymology and significance of "cabod" are discussed, emphasizing its weight and impact on behavior towards others.

• Parents have an obligation to instill respect in their children; however, if they fail to do so naturally, respect still needs to be shown according to Torah teachings.

• Respect cannot simply be commanded; it must be cultivated through actions and attitudes toward parents and authority figures.

• External expressions of respect are necessary even when personal feelings may not align with those expressions.

Practical Applications of Respect

• Participants are encouraged to treat parents as unique individuals deserving special consideration compared to others in their lives.

• The speaker suggests imagining parents as highly honorable figures (e.g., presidents), which helps reinforce respectful behavior during interactions.

• There’s an acknowledgment that while respect is important, individuals should not sacrifice their well-being or family dynamics for it; each situation requires careful consideration.

• A participant shares personal reflections on how they address their mother respectfully but struggles with habitual language choices that may undermine this respect.

Respect and Naming Conventions in Relationships

The Importance of Respect in Family Dynamics

• The speaker reflects on the cultural respect ingrained in Latin American societies, particularly towards parents, questioning when this respect began to diminish.

• A discussion arises about why calling parents by their first names is considered disrespectful according to the Torah, emphasizing the significance of titles and formalities.

• The conversation touches on social codes and conventions that dictate how individuals address authority figures, including God, highlighting a deeper spiritual understanding of naming.

Spirituality and Naming

• The speaker explains that many people do not adhere to the sanctity of God's name as prescribed by religious texts, which can be seen as an unconscious form of disrespect.

• Different names for God are discussed (e.g., "patrón" or "Ashem"), indicating a need for reverence and hierarchy in addressing divine entities.

Duality in Addressing Authority

• There exists a duality in how one relates to God: as both a close entity and one that transcends human understanding. This reflects on how we should approach relationships with our parents too.

• The importance of maintaining respect while also fostering closeness is emphasized; it’s crucial to balance familiarity with reverence.

Social Protocols Across Contexts

• In various formal settings (like courts or parliaments), there is an expectation not to address individuals by their first names if they hold significant positions, reinforcing societal norms around respect.

• Personal anecdotes illustrate how titles are used instead of names within professional contexts, showcasing ingrained habits regarding respect.

Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents

• The Torah explicitly states that one should not call their parents by their first names; this serves as a guideline for respectful communication within families.

• A participant shares her struggle with her mother's strong character and her attempts at practicing humility through silence during conflicts, reflecting on the complexities of familial relationships.

Balancing Honesty and Respect

• The participant discusses her internal conflict about addressing her mother’s behavior without causing offense while trying to maintain respect for parental authority.

Understanding Authority and Communication in Relationships

The Challenge of Addressing Mistakes

• Discusses the difficulty of addressing mistakes made by important figures, such as a president or a boss, highlighting the hesitation to confront them directly.

• Emphasizes that when personal relationships are involved, like with children, there are more appropriate ways to initiate dialogue while maintaining respect.

Navigating Family Dynamics

• Shares a personal anecdote about receiving an apology from a mother after a misunderstanding, illustrating the complexity of familial communication.

• Reflects on how refraining from direct confrontation can sometimes lead to self-realization for the other person, allowing them to acknowledge their mistakes independently.

The Role of Respect in Communication

• Introduces the concept of "cabot," which dignifies individuals and encourages self-correction rather than imposing reprimands.

• Highlights that silence can also communicate disapproval but may lead to unresolved issues if not addressed later.

Authority and Spiritual Dilemmas

• A participant expresses confusion regarding their authority as a parent versus divine authority, revealing internal conflicts about parenting styles influenced by past experiences.

• Discusses the struggle between wanting to establish authority through love rather than fear, contrasting it with authoritarian parenting experienced in childhood.

Seeking Balance Between Love and Discipline

• Describes feelings of being lost between honoring God and managing parental responsibilities effectively.

• Explores the tension between spiritual beliefs and practical parenting challenges, indicating a desire for growth amidst confusion.

Growth Through Conflict

• Suggests that experiencing conflict is indicative of personal growth and deeper understanding of oneself as well as one's parenting dynamics.

Understanding the Transformation of Concepts

The Evolution of Ideas

• The speaker discusses a shift in perception, indicating that concepts are no longer abstract or ghostly but rather tangible and moldable. This transformation is emphasized as being physical and recognizable.

• It is noted that while Rabbi Nachman was not the first to introduce certain ideas, he provided a unique twist on them, which adds value to understanding his teachings.

Personal Reflection and Challenges

• The speaker shares personal experiences of anxiety triggered by current situations, highlighting the importance of recognizing these feelings as part of their journey towards achieving a "clean heart."

• There is an acknowledgment of struggles in progressing through course material, illustrating a sense of patience and acceptance regarding personal growth.

Communication Dynamics

• The speaker addresses communication challenges with numerous contacts, emphasizing the difficulty in responding promptly due to high message volume.

• A reassurance is given to listeners that lack of response does not equate to neglect; it may simply be due to overwhelming circumstances.

Managing Expectations

• Advice is offered regarding timing for sending messages, particularly avoiding Fridays when responses may be delayed until after the weekend.

• The speaker reflects on how divine timing plays a role in receiving messages and answers, suggesting that silence can also be interpreted as a response.

The Concept of Honor (Cabod)

Understanding Cabod

• An introduction to the concept of "cabod," which refers to honor or dignity bestowed upon individuals deemed respectable within society.

Social Dynamics and Recognition

• The dynamics surrounding cabod are illustrated through examples where public performances elicit applause and recognition from audiences, demonstrating societal appreciation for talent.

Political Context

• A recent event involving Netanyahu's speech at the U.S. Congress serves as an example where cabod was prominently displayed through enthusiastic applause from attendees despite political divides.

Understanding Cabot and Its Deeper Meaning in Kabbalah

The Concept of Cabot

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of respect (cabot) within the context of Kabbalah, asking participants to confirm their understanding.

• It is noted that Kabbalah presents a contrasting view on cabot, suggesting it is not merely about outward respect but involves deeper dynamics.

• The term "gilu anelam" is introduced, which translates to "the revelation of the hidden," highlighting a significant aspect of cabot in Kabbalistic teachings.

Recommended Literature

• A book by Rabbi Britman is mentioned as valuable for understanding these concepts; it reflects teachings from his rabbi and offers insights into cabot.

• The speaker shares personal experiences studying with Rabbi Britman and mentions a course on spiritual therapy that diverges from traditional Jewish teachings.

Insights on Cabot's Nature

• The discussion includes how cabot should be understood differently than commonly perceived; it originates from the essence of individuals rather than external actions or gifts.

• Cabot is described as stemming from an internal quality within honorable individuals, emphasizing its authentic nature rather than superficial displays.

Attributes and Influence

• When someone possesses a strong attribute (e.g., wisdom or talent), this quality can radiate outward, influencing those around them positively.

• Examples are given, such as renowned figures like Michael Jordan or Netanyahu, whose profound skills evoke admiration and respect from others.

Divine Distribution of Cabot

• The speaker explains that cabot can be seen as something distributed by God to His creations, illustrating its universal significance beyond individual merit.

Understanding Respect and Honor in Creation

The Concept of Honor

• The speaker discusses the definition of a person worthy of honor, emphasizing that it is someone who dignifies and respects others.

• It is highlighted that respect extends beyond humans to all creatures, including nature, which should be treated with reverence.

Respect for Nature

• The speaker expresses personal pain when witnessing ecological damage, indicating a deep connection to nature and its preservation.

• A distinction is made between human feelings and the concept of mercy; developing compassion is seen as an obligation regardless of whether other entities can reciprocate feelings.

Spiritual Significance of Creation

• The discussion includes how Moses refrained from harming water or earth because they have played significant roles in his life, illustrating a spiritual connection to creation.

• The idea that everything created by God carries divine significance is emphasized, suggesting that there’s something sacred in all aspects of nature.

Divine Influence in Nature

• There’s an assertion that God's essence permeates all creation, reinforcing the importance of treating every element with respect.

• The speaker warns against pantheism while acknowledging the divine presence within creation; this balance is crucial for understanding spirituality without idolizing nature itself.

Energy and Revelation

• An analogy is drawn between the sun's energy and divine influence; both are powerful forces that impact life on Earth significantly.

• A personal interruption occurs due to a family emergency but highlights the fragility of life amidst discussions about energy and existence.

Understanding Hidden Forces

• Tragedies around him prompt reflections on life's impermanence while discussing how energy from celestial bodies reveals deeper truths about existence.

• The concept of "cabot" (honor or glory), as something deeply powerful revealed through natural phenomena like sunlight, suggests layers beneath what we perceive.

Reflections on Difficult Times and Unity

The Struggle for Joy

• The speaker expresses the challenges of recent days, noting a struggle with energy and emotions. They hope for good news to restore lost joy.

Collective Action for Good

• Emphasizing unity, the speaker believes that just as people can come together to do harm, they can also unite to promote goodness. This gathering is seen as a positive force.

Prayer and Spiritual Connection

• A reference is made to an interview with Rabbi Galet, highlighting the importance of praying not only for personal merits but also in honor of wise figures who have passed away.

Divine Mercy and Control

• The speaker reflects on God's absolute control over circumstances, suggesting that even difficult situations are part of divine provision and wisdom.

Honoring the Creator

• There’s a call to honor God through collective prayer and support for those in need, particularly focusing on Rabbi Jonathan and his wife during their hardships.

Insights from Proverbs on Humility

The Value of Humility

• A discussion arises around Proverbs 22:4, which states that humility and fear of God lead to wealth, honor (cabod), and life. This connection emphasizes obedience as a form of honoring God.

The Challenge of Seeking Humility

• The speaker notes the paradox in seeking humility; it often eludes those who chase it directly. Instead, they suggest working gradually towards it.

Understanding Honor (Cabod)

• There's an exploration into different types of honor (cabod), including its potential pitfalls such as envy or pursuit of pleasure that detracts from spiritual growth.

Personal Anecdotes Amidst Discussion

Family Concerns

• A personal note about the speaker's wife experiencing a minor injury is shared. Despite concern, there’s reassurance about her condition being manageable at present.

Heart Revealed Through Actions

• The concept of cabod is linked with 'lev' (heart), suggesting that true honor reveals what lies within us—our intentions and values reflected through our actions.

Deeper Meanings Behind Cabod

Revelation Through Honor

• Cabod is described as revealing hidden truths about individuals. It serves as a means to understand deeper attributes within oneself or others when expressed authentically.

Receiving Wisdom

• The discussion shifts towards receiving wisdom rather than merely giving honor. This reciprocal relationship highlights how wisdom can illuminate paths forward in life.

Understanding the Concept of Cabot

The Nature of Cabot

• The discussion begins with the idea that cabot (honor) is not initiated by our actions, but rather exists inherently when someone enters a space, such as Congress.

• The speaker emphasizes that cabot starts from the moment an individual steps into a significant role or position, highlighting the importance of their presence and demeanor.

Historical Context and Relationships

• It is suggested that cabot may stem from years of political relationships and mutual respect between individuals, particularly in contexts like U.S. politics.

• The distinction between giving honor (cabot) and receiving it is made; it’s about acknowledging the inherent value of a person rather than merely performing an act of honor.

Receiving Honor: A Kabbalistic Perspective

• The act of honoring someone involves receiving their cabot rather than bestowing it upon them; this reflects a deeper understanding within Kabbalah.

• The concept of bitul (self-nullification) is introduced, explaining how one must set aside personal desires to receive honor appropriately.

Annulling Personal Desires

• To receive cabot effectively, one must often suppress personal comforts or desires in favor of recognizing another's significance.

• This self-annulment connects to broader themes in Kabbalah regarding ego reduction and respect for authority figures.

Divine Honor and Revelation

• The speaker references biblical texts to illustrate that all creation serves God's honor, emphasizing divine glory over human recognition.

• A pivotal moment in Jewish tradition—the revelation at Mount Sinai—is discussed as a manifestation of God’s cabot through dramatic natural phenomena.

Perception vs. Reality

• It’s noted that while God’s presence was revealed at Sinai, what was truly shown was His cabot—an infinite power beyond human comprehension.

• The use of clouds during divine revelations symbolizes both proximity to God and the need for concealment; blessings are often accompanied by hidden aspects.

Conclusion on Cabot's Significance

• Ultimately, understanding cabot involves recognizing its profound implications for both interpersonal relationships and spiritual beliefs within Judaism.

Understanding the Concept of Cabot and Its Implications

The Nature of Cabot

• The speaker discusses how external expressions reveal a deeper, more significant essence within individuals. This connection is essential for recognizing the greatness in others.

• Emphasizes a posture of receptivity when encountering impressive qualities in others, highlighting the desire to absorb all that is being offered.

• The act of honoring someone goes beyond their words; it involves recognizing the profound depth behind their expression and understanding that there is much more than what meets the eye.

Recognition and Value

• If one perceives an individual as having limited capacity or insight, then their value diminishes. True recognition comes from acknowledging deeper layers of wisdom.

• The discussion references divine glory witnessed at Sinai, suggesting that unseen elements often hold greater significance than visible manifestations.

Wisdom and Connection

• When listening to wise individuals, it's not just about their spoken words but also about connecting with their inherent wisdom and greatness.

• Honoring wisdom requires valuing it; without this appreciation, one cannot fully engage with or respect those who possess it.

Personal Connections and Valuation

• A personal connection is crucial for valuing someone's contributions; if one lacks interest in a subject (e.g., basketball), they may not appreciate its icons (e.g., Michael Jordan).

• The importance of shared interests is highlighted—without them, recognition and appreciation are significantly diminished.

Reflection on Values

• What we value reflects our identity; admiration for certain figures can indicate personal values or stages in life.

• Citing King Solomon's analogy regarding filtering gold from stones illustrates how people's praises reveal their intrinsic worth.

Humility as a Bridge

• Discusses how humility serves as a bridge when interacting with powerful individuals who may mistreat others.

Understanding the Dynamics of Personal Growth and Leadership

The Role of Connection in Healing

• Discussion on how individuals manifest their pain and mistreatment towards others, emphasizing the importance of connection to facilitate healing.

• Exploration of how to engage with leaders or political figures who exhibit abusive behavior while maintaining one's own emotional integrity.

Learning from Political Examples

• Introduction to upcoming class content focused on political examples that illustrate key concepts discussed in previous sessions.

• Mention of supplementary materials that will be provided to enhance understanding, indicating these are essential for the course.

Self-Reflection and Personal Responsibility

• Encouragement for students to reflect on their own sources of self-worth (cabot), suggesting it originates from within oneself.

• Insight into how personal accolades can reveal deeper truths about oneself, prompting introspection regarding individual contributions and growth.

Inspirational Stories as Learning Tools

• Sharing a personal anecdote about a mentor-student relationship that highlights mutual growth through study and inspiration.

• Description of a transformative experience where an older student sought change after witnessing another's progress, illustrating the power of education at any age.

Shifting Perspectives on Learning

• A poignant moment where an older student expresses a desire to transition from being a follower to becoming an active learner, showcasing a shift in mindset.

• Emphasis on the importance of humility in learning; true growth comes from recognizing one’s role as a student rather than merely seeking validation or status.

The Essence of Annulling Ego for Growth

• Discussion on the concept of 'receiving' (lecabel), which involves setting aside ego and focusing inwardly for genuine learning experiences.

• Explanation that true learning requires one to prioritize their value system over external perceptions, leading to deeper understanding and connection with teachings.

The Spiritual Dimension of Service

• Reflection on what it means to serve God (as expressed by King David), highlighting that this service is not negative but rooted in profound respect and desire for spiritual elevation.