Sparks of divinity are trapped within all aspects of this world: mineral, vegetable, animal, and human. These are holy sparks trapped within kelipah, and the goal of our Torah, mitzvos, and meditations while using them is to refine and elevate these sparks.
Each individual spark has a complete structure that includes the equivalent of 248 limbs and 365 sinews. As long as the spark remains in its physical trappings it is a prisoner, that cannot stretch his arms and legs, or speak. It is forced to crouch silently in a fetal position, with its head on its knees and stomach. With our proper meditations/actions, we set it free. And like one whose efforts secure the release of the king’s son from incarceration, our reward is great indeed. There is a heavenly judgment and decision over the fate of each spark: how long it will languish in captivity, when it will be set free, and through who’s efforts it will be redeemed.
Adapted from Keter Shem Tov
