LRDTC.5/7 Rabi Nachman y la Piedra Angular: La Lección 6

Name: LRDTC.5/7 Rabi Nachman y la Piedra Angular: La Lección 6
Uploaded: 2024-08-11T15:48:56.000Z
Duration: 2 h 34 min 9 s

Session Overview and Preparation

Introduction to the Session

The session is a special recorded event, allowing participants to listen multiple times. It aims to prepare attendees for an upcoming event (Tish) scheduled for the following night.

Deepening Emotional Understanding

The focus of today's discussion is on deepening emotional understanding and integrating this knowledge into therapy practices.

Recap of Previous Discussions

The session will build upon previous discussions about silence, humility, and self-awareness. Emphasis will be placed on understanding oneself through these concepts.

Engagement and Openness in Discussion

Format of the Session

Participants are encouraged to ask questions during the session. It will be a mixed group with both men and women present, fostering an open environment for sharing experiences.

Importance of Self-Reflection

Attendees are invited to reflect on personal experiences that may arise during discussions, promoting a deeper connection with the material presented.

Exploring Self-Knowledge

Concept of 'Leja'

The concept of 'leja' refers to exploring unknown aspects within oneself. This journey involves inviting oneself into unfamiliar territories emotionally.

Abstract Nature of Learning

The current stage of learning is abstract yet comforting; it resonates with internal feelings that have been previously unarticulated but now make sense as they are explored collectively.

Detachment from Materialism

Disconnection from External Influences

A key theme discussed is complete detachment not only from material possessions but also from preconceived notions about oneself shaped by external influences.

Emphasizing Self-Unknowing

Recognizing one's ignorance about their true self can lead to discovering inner strength. This process involves shedding false identities tied to societal labels like nationality or religion.

The Power of New Beginnings

Letting Go of Past Experiences

Acknowledging past events allows individuals to embrace new beginnings without being hindered by previous experiences or identities that no longer serve them.

Seeking True Identity

The quest for identity involves questioning who one truly is beyond superficial labels, leading towards a greater understanding and acceptance of oneself.

Revelation Through Emotion

Emergence of New Feelings

What is the Path to Self-Discovery?

The Journey of Self-Exploration

The speaker discusses the initial steps of self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of inspiration and creativity in understanding oneself. A metaphorical song emerges as a representation of this journey.

The concept of "cabod" (honor or glory) is introduced, highlighting how one can connect with their own essence through external influences, such as powerful figures like Netanyahu.

Trust plays a crucial role in this process; the speaker expresses confidence in others' potential while recognizing their own capacity for growth.

Embracing New Experiences

To foster personal development, individuals must seek new situations that challenge them and reveal deeper aspects of themselves.

The discussion touches on moments of inactivity in life, suggesting that even during calm periods, one should strive for recognition and self-awareness to cultivate "cabod."

Steps Towards Transformation

The first step towards achieving "cabod" involves dedication and effort over time, akin to scholars who study diligently without distractions.

As individuals accumulate attributes through hard work, they begin to reveal these qualities outwardly, impacting those around them positively.

Impacting Others Through Personal Growth

Once an individual has developed their inner qualities, they naturally begin to influence others by sharing their experiences and insights.

This transmission is not merely about self-promotion but rather about authentically expressing one's growth and its effects on others' lives.

Transformative Power of Influence

The act of influencing others leads to transformation; when one shares their acquired wisdom or attributes, it creates a ripple effect that can change lives.

This transformative impact is referred to as "kabod shem," where divine qualities manifest through personal actions and interactions with others.

Manifesting Divine Qualities

Individuals aspire for their actions to reflect divine goodness and wisdom. They aim for recognition not just from peers but also from family members who appreciate small gestures like making a sandwich with love.

Recognition from others serves as validation for one's efforts in embodying these values. It reinforces the idea that personal growth can lead to significant changes in relationships and community dynamics.

Elevating Collective Honor

The speaker emphasizes the need to pursue one's own honor while simultaneously elevating the honor associated with divinity ("Hashem").

Sanctifying God's Name and the Concept of Tikkun Olam

The Importance of Sanctifying God's Name

The greatest mitzvah is to sanctify God's name, emphasizing that one's actions can reflect divine holiness.

There is a contrast between true believers and those who merely appear religious; hypocrisy can lead to profaning God's name.

Misinterpretations of Tikkun Olam

Some people mislabel actions as "mitzvot" (good deeds), leading to confusion about what constitutes true rectification or tikkun.

Many secular groups in Israel engage in acts they call tikkun olam, often focusing on environmentalism and social justice without a spiritual context.

Intentions Behind Actions Matter

While good deeds are commendable, the intention behind them is crucial; if they lack a connection to God, they may not fulfill the concept of tikkun olam.

The biblical basis for tikkun olam relates to recognizing God’s sovereignty through our actions, which should aim to reveal His presence in the world.

The Role of Israel as a Light to Nations

Israel's mission includes making God known as the supreme ruler through moral integrity and righteous laws, illuminating other nations.

This illumination serves a dual purpose: enhancing awareness among Jews and extending this light universally.

Universal Connection and Support for Israel

Non-Jews can also contribute by acknowledging God’s universal role and supporting Israel's mission through various means.

Philanthropic efforts towards Israel are significant; even political motivations behind support do not diminish their importance in sanctifying God's name.

Addressing Personal Struggles Through Divine Awareness

Acknowledging personal challenges often stems from a lack of reverence for God (kavod Shem); resolving these issues requires reconnecting with divine principles.

Understanding the Concept of Honor in Relation to Divine and Personal Pursuits

The Assurance of Success through Divine Principles

The speaker guarantees a 100% success rate based on personal experiences and testimonies from individuals who have benefited from therapy rooted in Torah principles.

A distinction is made between "real" and "non-real" honor, indicating that understanding these concepts is crucial for the discussion ahead.

Key Lessons from Sacred Texts

Reference to a specific lesson from a book titled "Pura Luz," focusing on Moses' intention to pass his legacy to Joshua, highlighting the importance of mentorship.

Emphasis on the need for individuals to reduce their pursuit of personal honor while increasing their quest for divine honor.

The Nature of Honor

Discussion about pursuing divine honor versus self-honor; those seeking self-honor will not achieve true divine recognition.

Citing Proverbs 20:5, it’s noted that the honor of kings is always subject to scrutiny and doubt, suggesting that earthly honors are transient.

Scrutiny and Recognition

It’s explained that while one can access certain types of honor (like royal), they will never reach the level of divine honor.

Individuals who seek personal glory often face public questioning regarding their worthiness or origins, leading to skepticism about their achievements.

Diminishing Self-Honor for Divine Recognition

The speaker notes that distancing oneself from personal pride allows for greater alignment with divine purpose, which leads to genuine recognition.

To truly attain divine honor, one must actively decrease their focus on self-honor while simultaneously elevating their pursuit of God's glory.

Prohibition Against Investigating Divine Honor

Clarification on what it means to flee from self-honor; it's not merely avoidance but an active shift towards seeking God’s glory.

When someone achieves true divine honor, they become immune to public scrutiny regarding their merit or worthiness.

The Inaccessibility of Divine Honor

It is stated that investigating God's honor is forbidden; this reflects a deeper spiritual truth about its sacredness and inaccessibility.

Comparisons are drawn with angels guarding sacred spaces, emphasizing how unattainable this level of recognition is for mortals.

Historical Context and Skepticism

Questions arise about why even figures like Moses faced scrutiny despite his exemplary character; this sets up further discussions in future lessons.

Acknowledgment that skepticism exists around great leaders but does not diminish their impact or legacy within history.

Understanding Cabot and Its Implications

The Concept of Cabot

The speaker introduces the concept of "cabot," distinguishing between a true cabot (cabot amí) and a false one (cabot no amí), suggesting that not all perceived authority is genuine.

A comparison is made with political figures, specifically mentioning Maduro and the President of Mexico, to illustrate how public perception can influence the legitimacy of authority figures.

School Example to Illustrate Cabot

The speaker uses an example from school where students must present themselves perfectly for a visit from an important figure, highlighting societal expectations tied to authority.

Emphasis on how students prepare meticulously for such visits reflects their understanding of cabot as they align their behavior with external expectations.

Public Display of Respect

During official visits, individuals display respect towards authority figures through organized ceremonies, which may not reflect genuine admiration but rather adherence to social norms.

The audience's mixed reactions during discussions about cabot indicate varying perceptions of its authenticity; some see it as valid while others question its sincerity.

External Motivations Behind Cabot

The discussion reveals that people often engage in acts of cabot due to external motivations, such as potential benefits or rewards from those in power.

Examples include receiving financial support or academic assistance, indicating that actions taken in reverence may be driven by self-interest rather than genuine respect.

Tactical Nature of Cabot

The speaker notes that cabot can be tactical; individuals may show deference not out of respect but to secure personal advantages or avoid negative consequences.

This tactical approach suggests a deeper connection between power dynamics and individual behavior within hierarchical structures.

Psychological Aspects of Cabot

There’s an acknowledgment that fear plays a role in why individuals give cabot; they may do so to maintain stability or avoid repercussions from those in power.

The psychological impact on leaders who receive cabot is discussed, noting how it can inflate their sense of importance and lead to arrogance.

Conclusion on the Nature of Cabot

While there are positive aspects associated with receiving cabot, such as feeling valued, it also connects with darker elements like pride and arrogance when misused.

What Happens to Individuals After Losing Power?

The Psychological Impact of Losing Status

When individuals lose elections or status, they may experience a profound psychological crisis, feeling as if their life is collapsing. This can lead to erratic behavior and desperation.

A sense of obsession can develop in those who once held power; they may feel tortured by the loss of attention and recognition, leading to destructive actions that could harm themselves or society.

Artistic Decline and Mental Health

In the artistic world, such as Hollywood or among rock stars, aging often leads to a decline in popularity and talent, which can trigger severe depression.

Many artists resort to substance abuse or even suicide as a means of coping with their fading relevance and emotional pain.

The Cycle of Despair

As individuals age or lose their appeal, they may become obsolete in society's eyes, evoking pity rather than admiration from others.

People often reflect on their past glory but struggle with the reality of their current state, leading to feelings of despair and self-destruction.

Understanding Life's Ups and Downs

Unlike those who spiral into despair after losing status, individuals grounded in spiritual values (like "cabod de Hashem") maintain stability through life's fluctuations.

Life is compared to an electrocardiogram—there are ups and downs—but maintaining balance is crucial for mental health.

The Path Towards Redemption

Moments of crisis can lead people to seek redemption; however, it requires understanding one's inner self before reaching outwards for connection.

The journey towards personal growth involves recognizing internal struggles first before impacting others positively.

Seeking True Recognition

It’s essential for individuals to focus on genuine recognition ("cabod de Hashem") rather than superficial accolades.

Achieving true honor comes from doing what is right rather than seeking personal glory; this pursuit leads one closer to divine acknowledgment.

Understanding the Role of Teshuva in Accessing Divine Honor

The Concept of Silence and Inaction

The speaker discusses a state of being where one feels humiliated, suggesting that in such moments, it is better to remain silent and inactive, akin to being petrified or inert.

This silence is foundational to therapy, emphasizing that true access to divine honor (Kabod) can only be achieved through a process called Teshuva.

The Nature of Teshuva

Teshuva is described as a response to feelings of humiliation; it involves not reacting but rather reflecting on one's actions.

The term "Teshuva" signifies repentance and rectification. It implies acknowledging past mistakes and committing not to repeat them.

Accessing Divine Honor Through Virtue

To attain Kabod (divine honor), one must engage in acts of virtue consistently, seeking balance and moral integrity.

The speaker emphasizes that accessing Kabod requires confronting one's sins; there is no direct path without recognizing these shortcomings.

The Process of Breaking and Revelation

There’s an analogy drawn between personal breakdown (or 'crashing') and the Kabbalistic concept of broken vessels. This fragility allows for the possibility of achieving Teshuva.

True self-revelation cannot occur without first experiencing some form of internal struggle or darkness.

The Journey Towards Divine Connection

Reaching divine honor isn't straightforward; it requires navigating difficult paths rather than taking shortcuts.

One must endure challenges that lead to deeper understanding and connection with the divine, as God designed this journey intentionally.

Continuous Movement Towards Redemption

There’s an assertion that all human actions ultimately contribute towards revealing hidden aspects within oneself over time.

Even when pursuing spiritual purification, individuals often harbor desires for immediate rewards or recognition from their efforts.

Infinite Nature of Teshuva

The speaker highlights King David's acknowledgment that complete purity is unattainable; thus, striving for improvement should be infinite.

Understanding the Path to Authenticity

The Struggle with External Pressures

The speaker emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with one's true self, especially during challenging times such as financial struggles or personal conflicts.

There is a call to surrender the pursuit of external validation and perfection, suggesting that giving up this struggle can lead to inner peace.

Humiliation serves as a pivotal moment for introspection; it prompts individuals to look inward rather than outward for fulfillment.

Embracing Vulnerability

The speaker discusses the therapeutic process of acknowledging and feeling one’s pain instead of resisting it, highlighting that acceptance is crucial for healing.

Staying present with feelings of bitterness or discomfort is encouraged, as it allows individuals to confront their emotions directly without avoidance.

Insights from Rabin Nachman

Rabin Nachman's teachings suggest that true divine connection (cabod elokim) can only be achieved through sincere repentance (teshuva), not through superficial means.

The journey towards authenticity involves recognizing distractions and returning focus inwardly, emphasizing personal responsibility in one's spiritual path.

The Experience of Loneliness

A narrative illustrates an individual’s profound sense of loneliness despite having family and social connections, showcasing the complexity of emotional experiences.

This person realizes that allowing oneself to feel deep loneliness can paradoxically bring them closer to understanding their relationship with God.

Revelation Through Pain

By confronting feelings of solitude head-on, individuals may discover deeper truths about themselves and their connection to divinity.

Recognizing life's illusions leads to significant insights; understanding one's loneliness can foster a stronger bond with God rather than alienation.

Continuous Growth and Connection

The speaker encourages ongoing engagement in personal growth; seeking connection with loved ones becomes essential after recognizing feelings of isolation.

Understanding Spiritual Desire and Human Limitations

The Nature of Desire in Spirituality

The speaker discusses the inherent human desire for spiritual fulfillment, emphasizing that complete wholeness is an illusion; true completeness does not exist.

They highlight that while humans yearn for connection and to overcome loneliness, this desire itself is a continuous movement towards personal growth and understanding.

Experiences of Connection and Disconnection

The narrative reflects on moments of achieving peace (shalom) in relationships, such as with family or colleagues, but acknowledges the cyclical nature of these experiences where one can fall back into conflict.

There’s a contrast between initial feelings of harmony after reaching a desired state and the subsequent return to feelings of dissatisfaction or discontent.

The Illusion of External Validation

A sense of frustration arises when expectations for recognition or reward are unmet despite previous efforts to achieve harmony; this leads to questioning one's worth.

The speaker critiques the pursuit of external validation (cabot), suggesting it is misleading and emphasizes the need for internal self-worth instead.

True Artistic Expression and Life's Journey

An anecdote about an artist illustrates that true creativity lies in ongoing expression rather than clinging to past successes; life should be viewed as an evolving art form.

The discussion contrasts "one-hit wonders" with those who continuously create, stressing the importance of reinvention and exploration in both art and life.

Internal Revelation Over External Recognition

Emphasizing inner discovery, the speaker encourages revealing one's true self rather than seeking approval from others; this journey involves confronting discomfort as part of personal growth.