ABSTRACT Likkutei Sichos Part 2

ABSTRACT לקוטי שיחות

• The covenant made by each Jew is the actual covenant of Avrohom, since the ability of all Jews to enter into the covenant comes as an inheritance from our father Avrohom. The act of circumcision affects the Jew throughout one’s being, without regard to intellect.
• 10 generations from Adam to Noach were punished by the Flood (since Noach did not earn their reward). 10 generations from Noach to Avrohom had their reward transferred to Avrohom. 2 types of evil; one that cannot be elevated and can only be destroyed; and the other type of evil can be transcended into good.
• The Avos created a “lesser” light in the upper worlds that was revealed to them in this world; after Matan Torah we produce a “greater” light that is hidden in this world; yet, the Avos paved the way for us by their example of Bitul. Similarly, when a child learns though not in the fullest sense of learning, prepares the ability for an appropriate learning to occur in the future.
• Parshas Bereshis describes the work of G-d; Parshas Noach the efforts of man; and Parshas Lech Lecha, the third, combines the cooperation of man & of G-d. Live with the times. Parsha of Lech Lecha is totally joyous; joy breaks boundaries.
• Toil leads to a person’s greatest joy, to become partners in creation with HaShem. Three type of toil (עמל) exist: עמל מלאכה HaShem is the source that sustains; but still connected to the world. עמל שיחה (Prayer) Advantage that it brings one toward Heaven; but still depends on one’s abilities. עמל תורה This is direct from HaShem and knows no limits.
• Two kinds of promises about Eretz Yisrael were made to Avrohom; foreshadowing the two types of conquering and acquiring the land: conquest by Yehoshua & acquisition later by Ezra.
• Avrom relied on the merit of Sarai that their safety was assured, and in her merit, they would obtain the great wealth (holy sparks) of Egypt promised to Avrom. Avrom & Sarai - neshama & body table. While accomplishing one’s mission (elevating the world) during work hours, one must yet yearn for times of Torah, so that one “steals” from work time.
• שמתוך the inner will of every Jew is to do G-d’s Will. שלא לשמה the inner will of the Jew’s apparent “not for its sake” בא לשמה is really for its sake (to do G-d’s Will). Similarly, the rewards for Mitzvos are not for its own sake, but are given for the needs of others, which displays the greatness of Torah and Mitzvos.