There is a verse from Megillat Eicha, which reflects Zion’s lamentation after the destruction of the temple. It mentions that those who pursued her, representing the Jewish nation and the Beit HaMikdash, reached and subdued her between the straits (כל רודפיה השיגוה בין המצרים), ultimately leading to the Holy Temple’s destruction.
According to Rashi and the Midrash, these distressing times refer to the period between the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av.
An insightful teaching from the Magid of Mezritch states that these three weeks are the ideal time to experience spiritual transformation by being “squeezed,” so to speak, in order to return to Hashem. The difficulties we encounter during this time serve as the impetus for our spiritual growth.
The Magid elaborates that the pursuit of YH from Hashem’s Name, which symbolizes clarity and awareness of Hashem in the world, leads to connecting to VH from Hashem’s Name, which is the revealed part of Hashem’s rulership in this world. This is hinted to in the above verse – כל רודפ-יה השיג-וה.
In other words, during these Three Weeks, the pursuit of a deeper connection with Hashem enables us to access and elevate Hashem’s Divine Presence in the world. And this unique period offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with Hashem like no other time of the year.
Furthermore, Kabbalistic teachings emphasize that Hashem’s Name is hidden within the word Mitzvah (מצוה). The letters “Mem-Tzadik” correspond to “Yud-Heh” (in the AT-BaSh gematria format) and “Vav-Heh” represent the Vav-Heh from His Name.
During The Three Weeks, the pursuit of a deeper connection with Hashem enables us to access and elevate Hashem’s Divine Presence in the world!
When we perform mitzvot, we strive to elevate Hashem’s Divine Presence in the world, represented by “Vav-Kei,” back to the essence of Hashem’s Name, symbolized by “Yud-Heh.”
While performing mitzvot, we should remember that Hashem’s name is concealed within them.
This realization allows us to connect to the ultimate source of divinity, even amid the challenges of exile.
However, Rebbe Nachman teaches that performing mitzvot with joy is vital. Joy elevates the mitzvot and helps release the Divine Presence from the constraints of exile, restoring it back to Hashem. After all, joy resonates with Hashem’s essence, as evident in the verse “נתת שמחה בליבי” (You have placed joy in my heart – Psalms).
Throughout these Three Weeks, we should expect setbacks and difficulties. These challenges are part of the testing process that builds the vessels necessary to receive the profound light of “Yud-Heh.” By enduring these tests with unwavering faith and patience, we prove ourselves worthy of experiencing the Infinite Light that emanates from Hashem’s Name.
The Magid’s teaching underscores the importance of feeling the impact of exile during these Three Weeks. It is during these challenging times that we can truly seek clarity and connection with Hashem. Despite facing setbacks, we must persevere and continue to perform mitzvot with faith and joy, knowing that we are on the path to a deeper spiritual connection.
As we maximize the Three Weeks experience, we await the consolation of Shabbat Nachamu and the eventual rebuilding of the Temple. The transformation of our “אפר” (ashes) to “פאר” (glory) reflects our journey from a state of exile, symbolized by ashes, to a state of clarity and divine light, symbolized by glory.
May we all be blessed during this period and find greater closeness to Hashem through our joy in our actions and intentions.
Shabbat Shalom
Meir Elkabas
