AFTERLIFE

Sha’ar HaBitachon - Episode Seventy-Six , ~ ! We've already been taught about varying degrees of Trust required for our everyday realities; learning how Bitachon is to be uniquely applied in different situations. Rabbeinu Bachaya now seems to feel compelled to focus on the Trust Elements that apply towards our belief in The Afterlife. The big question is why? It should be self evident that the author's choice to shift into eternity, and address matters of Trust Pertaining to the World to Come isn't about ignoring the 'Here and Now.' Clearly the focus on Bitachon in eternity is important because it will directly impact the way we lead our terrestrial lives in this present world! Yet for all the force of this assumption brings to the table, it lacks accompanying rational. Why and how indeed does it make a difference to us?! Seeking clarification of this cryptic text will lead us into a journey of discovery of Heaven, Earth, and Existence itself! Ultimately, we will come to appreciate that the idea of living purposefully and being mission-driven applies to all dimensions; both those with immediate results as well as those with 'Future' realities still to come. Nurturing the right degree of heartfelt Bitachon will enable us to successfully synthesize body, soul, and existence. Because trusting reliance on Hashem goes far beyond matters pertaining to material success. Here, we will learn to understand and appreciate why only by relying on G-d in ALL matters -- including the most sublime, spiritual, and even futuristic in nature -- can we lived fully successfully achieve inner joy, fulfillment, and lasting satisfaction. Rabbi Mendel Kaplan