Question: Two weeks ago a person wrote they do not feel as close to Hashem as they did years ago. You answered, in short, that the fact they do not feel close does not mean they are not close. However, knowing they are close is not the issue troubling them. They want to feel close to Hashem; they want to feel the inspiration they once felt. I can totally relate.
Answer: You have a valid point. We do not want ideas to remain intellectual, we want them to pervade our heart, arousing feelings of love and awe of the Creator. With this in mind, consider the following. Chassidic teachings discuss two spiritual dynamics: “arousal from below” and “arousal from above”. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
The arousal from above can come as a gift from Hashem; not as the product of our effort. One feels spiritually aroused; inspired to daven, learn Torah and do mitzvot. This arousal has a lofty spiritual source. Yet, from the advantages are born the disadvantages. Given it is not the result of our effort, combined with its high spiritual source, we are not able to contain and digest the arousal. The inspiration is not integrated into our beings and, as a result, does not last.
In contrast, with the arousal from below, we experience spiritual inspiration as a result of our own strivings. However, given the light is due to the efforts of man, it is limited in accordance with one’s capabilities. Yet, from the seeming down side is born the upside. Because the outcome is from one’s efforts, the spiritual inspiration can be integrated into the person in a lasting and fulfilling manner.
When a person begins to observe Torah and mitzvot they experience an arousal from above. Hashem gives the gift of inspiration; of feeling close to the Creator. Yet, while this inspiration provides one with the needed push to begin their journey, it fades over time. Ultimately, the inspiration needs to be a product of our G-dly service—arousal from below. Through our strivings, we make ourselves a vessel to contain the light, causing a lasting change in our beings.
The yetzer hara is a master at his trade—”it’s a waste of time; you won’t succeed; you’re too old to change, etc.” To be reinspired, to reawaken feelings of Divine closeness, feels like standing at the foot of a towering mountain. Since the initial arousal came as a gift, it is discouraging when it does not automatically reappear.
Yet, Hashem wants to give us a greater gift; He wants the closeness to emanate from our efforts. As our Sages teach, “sanctify yourself a little from below and you will be sanctified a lot from above.” One can feel renewed closeness. The first step is the hardest, but the rest will follow.
Aharon Schmidt, marriage & individual counseling, [email protected]
