| The
Torah is G-d's knowledge, which means that it is infinite. Therefore,
there are different levels of the Torah, one deeper than the other.
The hidden mystical aspect of the Torah is called Kabalah. Kabalah
is often compared to wine; just as wine is hidden in the grape,
and by squeezing the grape, wine is obtained, a similar analogy
can be made with the Torah and Kabalah. The deepest and highest
level of the Torah is Chassidut, which is compared to oil. Oil floats
on top of all liquids indicating its superior quality. At the same
time oil makes everything oily. Another characteristic of oil is
that all substances contain oil. If any substance is pressed enough
oil will be obtained; therefore oil is contained in the essence
of everything. Chassidut is also the essence of the Torah, and within
it is contained all the other levels. In Chassidut, not only are
the mystical and Kabalistic dimensions discussed, but all the other
levels are an integral part. Chassidut unifies all the different
levels of the Torah for the purpose of elevating the world and the
person himself, to make the world and the person G-dly. As a result
the world becomes a dwelling place for G-d and causes the coming
of Moshiach, the ultimate purpose of creation. |
