Introduction to the Book of Zohar (PDF) - Kabbalah Media Archive

I N T RO D U C T I O N T O T H E B O O K O F Z O H A R
Based upon the prerequisites,
principles, and desires that I have in
me I cannot imagine my future. It is so
opposite to me that whatever I imagine
as being there is unattainable. My
nature would not allow me to do this.
However, even if it did, I would not aspire
to it. I would keep away from it.
That is why I somehow need to
see my next level. I need to understand
and accept it inside of me. I should ask the Creator to help me
from Above, to give me the Ohr Makif, so that in my third action I would
move up to a higher level.
If I do not do that, I would advance in the spiritual world in the
same way as in our world, making unsuccessful attempts all the time.
Every next step of mine would be less successful then the previous one.
Instead of ascending, I would go down more and more. Therefore, Baal
HaSulam writes:
One should start by looking at the end, i.e., at the purpose of creation.
For nothing can be understood in the middle of the process,
but only at its end. Moreover, it is clear that there is no act without
purpose, for only the insane can be found to act purposelessly.
People always act with a purpose, so if I wish to ascend spiritually,
this should become my purpose. I should acquire new strength, intellect,
and properties, which I do not have. I cannot do this with my present
properties.
I know that there are “know-alls” who scorn the method of Kabbalah
(who believe that they know better ways), saying the Creator created
reality, but then left it to the mercy of fate; because of the worthlessness
of the creatures, it is not fitting for the exalted Creator to watch over their petty
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