An interesting analysis from Rav Leitman. Here is an elaboration of the teaching on the EGO.
Comment: These teachings are based on the writings of R. Ashlag but, in my opinion, as presented, they are selective, glib, superficial and misleading. All that is being spoken about is the ego as the vessel to receive. But a vessel that only receives will either become a shell (kelipah) or will break. The problem is the use of the inadequate term "ego". What must be emphasized is that we must grow to learn how to recieve in order to GIVE, to become a vessel, a transit point, a part and ways station of the channel for Divine goodness so as to share it with others. To explain, I will first address the difference between Kelli (vessel) and Kelipah (husk) in Kabala. Both contain and encompass Divine light; yet, the former is good and the latter is evil. How does one explain this?
R. Ashlag in the introduction to his Commentary to the Zohar explains that a keli contains light only in order to share it with the others Light flows through it and it is but a way station. Kelippah on the other hand imprisons and holds on the the Light, only for itself. Since God gives, a Kelli is like God and it is therefore good. Kelipah, on the other hand, is a complete opposite of God, for it only takes. As such it is evil. It is fine, then, to speak of the Ego, although this should be better defined. But it is an error and a misrepresentation for Mahari Ahslag's thought to present the spiritual task as expanding the ego in order to recieve rather then receive and give.
Comments