Primary Focus: Torah Study

Primary Focus: Torah Study

Since every preparation should be similar to its objective, the primary focus of our preparations should be an increase in Torah study.

All Parts of Torah

We should include both the “revealed” and mystical teachings in our pre-Shavuos study program.

Emphasize the Mystical

On Shavuos, the study of Torah’s mystical teachings is particularly emphasized. These Kabbalistic teachings are referred to as ma’aseh merkavah (“the workings of the Celestial Chariot”—a reference for the supernal sefirot, etc.), and are alluded to in the custom of eating dairy products on Shavuos. Similarly, we should also—or more precisely, primarily—prepare for Shavuos by increasing our study of the Torah’s inner teachings.

Add and Enhance

We should increase both the quantity and quality of our Torah studies.