10.1 Torah 10 V'Eleh HaMishpatim pt 1 of 3

1.      Divine decrees can be nullified by means of dancing and clapping; (There will be a lengthy introduction and we will not come back to this concept until the next shiur)2.      The essence of Hashem’s greatness is manifest when idolaters recognize Hashem; We referenced the Torah’s ‘introduction’ to Matan Torah with the episode of Yisro coming to recognize the greatness of Hashem. (briefly, we discussed that Oneness is not merely when A triumphs over B, but when it is recognized that B does not truly have existence other than as an entity with out real substance, other than as a perception of another designed to create a contrast to appreciate the reality of A, because there is no ‘other’ nor even the possibility of an other.3.      Those far from Hashem can only recognize Hashem through the aspect of Tefillah that is represented by a “Bayis/House,” the clearest expression of a dynamic relationship (associated with Yaakov Avinu; compare Avraham Avinu/Har, and Yitzchok Avinu/Sadeh);  4.      This is functionally accomplished through the tzaddik in every generation. However, there are those who perceive themselves to be a tzaddik. (note the distinction between tzaddik gamur and tzaddik she’eino gamur discussed in Torah 8). While they may have rid themselves of negative behaviors, the negative elements within them may be dormant, but still extant, thus making them unfit to be in this role of a tzaddik, and worse, direct people towards them and away from attaching themselves to a true tzaddik. 5.      The only advice for those who find themselves in this headspace of ‘gaaveh,’ which is effectively avodah zara is to attach themselves to a tzaddik; (We discussed how one who is essentially within a headspace of being a ba’al ga’veh can do this as it would seem to be a ‘chicken and egg’ problem) The tzaddik ultimately is the one who can transform “acher” (Elokim acheirim/gaaveh/elements representing ‘otherness’) into “echad” (note that in Hebrew writing, the difference between “Acher” and “Echad” is a small ‘stem’ at the back of the letter dalet. Draft form; hope to edit later