Have to Look for HKBH to See Him
Discussion of the need to look for Hashem in order to see Him. The role of freedom of choice (Bechira Chofshis) in our perception of reality.
Doing Mitzvos by Rote Doesn’t Reveal HKBH
The role that being surrounded by Hashem’s presence and kindness from birth plays in our not seeing Him. The manner in which we should go about our observance of mitzvos to come closer to Him.
Seeing HKBH in Nature
We are obligated to discern chochmos Hashem in the world. The relationship between Torah and “natural law”
1993 Hesped for Rav zt”l
1) Our Attitude Towards Chochma. 2) Taking Things for Granted
The obligation to study science, and how to approach its study. What is considered worthy of study. Hashgacha pratis. Instinct.
Seeing HKBH’s Wisdom in Our Physical, Psychological, and Spiritual Makeup
Man as a microcosm. The Torah’s optimistic view of man. Our instinctive sense of what we need to do address our spiritual needs.
Serving out of Obligaton & Shelo Lishma is a Starting Point
The context of Shaar Avodas Elokim is someone towards the beginning of his journey of growth inavodasHashem, which starts out driven by a sense of indebtedness to Hashem and progressively grows.
A Pleasent Outlook on Life
The right focus as a path to happiness. Our vulnerability serves as a needed reminder of Hashem.
1) Seeing Torah as a Burden 2) Yiras haOnesh vs. Yiras Harome’mus
Understanding why one may find Torah to be a burden, and the path to growing beyond that. The infinite growth possible via a maximilis approach to serving Hashem.
1) Reward is a Chessed 2) Esteeming Mitsvos 3) Torah is All-Encompasing
Hashem owes us nothing, not even reward. One must have a correct and productive attitude towards mitzvos. Calibrating our entire life to serve Hashem properly.