ב"ה
THEMES of Featured Ascent Lights
Beginner
The altars in the Tabernacle teach us about "inner" and "outer" service.
No matter how much we focus on "spiritual power", a person must eat and drink, sleep and rest, care for their body and take the time for a stroll in the fresh air. This is by no means "being seduced by the desires of the world". Rather, a person has to see these actions as part of his spiritual service, as the verse says, "In all of our ways we should know Him". This is also holy work.
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Beginner
Our homes can suffice with silver and copper.
The Talmud states gold's purpose was only for use in the Holy Temple, a place for G-d to be revealed. When we build a Sanctuary, a Temple, or even a "mikdash ma'at" — a synagogue, study hall, or school—we build it nicer than our own home to demonstrate that is of special importance.
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Beginner
Each of us is obligated to light up the soul of our fellow Jew.
Something that is done seemingly with human strength alone is temporary; only something impacted by the inner divine strength can be everlasting.
A person must realize that when he does anything of value, it is not with his own human ability and strength alone - rather, each time he acts, he arouses divine power.
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