Rebbe Nachman explains the existence of a treasury of unearned gifts of Hashem. This treasury isn’t required by the tzaddikim, who have earned their merits, nor does it belong to the wicked, who don’t deserve it. It belongs to a unique group, the tzaddikim who, even during times of not actively earning merits, draw sustenance from this hidden treasury of blessings.
The tzaddik’s connection to Hashem transcends specific spiritual activities. Even during mundane moments, they seek to connect with the Divine. When they’re not engaged in explicit acts of Torah study or prayer, they tap into this treasury of unearned gifts.
Drawing parallels to the time before the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, Rebbe Nachman describes how the hidden Torah provided sustenance for the world during the 26 generations from Adam to Moses. Similarly, today’s tzaddikim draw from this treasury to nourish the world, even those not directly connected to the Torah. Their selflessness and ability to sustain others are truly awe-inspiring.
Despite their merits, the tzaddikim humbly seek these gifts, not for themselves, but to sustain the rest of the world!
In Parshat Va’etchanan, Moshe Rabbeinu pleads before Hashem, using the word “Va’Etchanan,” meaning he asked for unearned gifts. Despite their merits, the tzaddikim humbly seek these gifts, not for themselves, but to sustain the rest of the world.
It’s comforting to know that even during moments of distance from Hashem, when we question the value of our spiritual efforts, the tzaddikim sustain us from the treasury of unearned gifts. Recognizing this allows us to escape the grip of despair and find hope and happiness in our simple connection to the tzaddikim.
May these profound insights inspire us to find solace in simplicity, embrace hope, and deepen our connection to the Divine on our spiritual journey.
Shabbat Shalom
Meir Elkabas
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