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The Menorah reflected the lights of the upper worlds

From the teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai; translation and commentary by Shmuel-Simcha Treister, based on Metok MiDevash

The oil in the Menorah represents the sefira of chochma. Its miraculous fashioning, emerged fully formed from the furnace in response to Moses' prayer further connects the Menorah to the sefira of chochma, like a gift bestowed upon a person worthy to receive it.

Audio | 6:51

The Menorah and the Incense

Based on Zohar Bamidbar 151a

Translated and annotated by Rahmiel-Hayyim Drizin from the Zohar selection in Hok L'Yisrael

The twelve tribes camped in four directions with four standards, similar to the arraignment of the heavenly hosts who carry the Heavenly Chariot in the spiritual world Above. The Menorah had seven lamps to be lit by the high priest, also similar to Above.

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Far Out, Man

The Zohar teaches that anyone can arouse himself to truly return to holiness.

From the teachings of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai; translation and commentary by Shmuel-Simcha Treister, based on Metok MiDevash

This Torah reading includes the premise that one who is unable to bring the Pesach offering is able to bring it one month later, on Pesach Sheini. The Zohar teaches that this example shows that every person who sincerely makes an effort to purify himself becomes purified – even if in a roundabout way.