If we had to create a visual image of spiritual growth what would it look like? Most of us would picture an ascent up a ladder or a mountain. And we are not so shallow as to think that the path doesn’t lead straight up; rather we advance several steps and then sometimes have setbacks after which we try to continue our upward striving.
While this picture is correct Rav Eliyahu Dessler in Michtav MeEliyahu deepens our understanding of the process. He describes spiritual growth as a vibration between two opposite poles. The constant flow between these two poles creates movement much as the flow of electricity between positive and negative magnetic poles creates the forward movement in an engine.
One pole is the pull we have towards the klal the community. The root of this is chesed or giving. This is an outwardly directed drive that inclines us toward engaging others and being contributive outside of ourselves. When we channel our energy in this direction it creates mutual fulfillment and growth. For example if I volunteer for my local bikur cholim once a week I become connected to the sick person whom I drive to the doctor and each one of us can experience spiritual growth. I grow from becoming more of a giver and the sick person benefits from being the impetus for my growth.
In the words of our Sages “More than the homeowner [i.e. one who gives tzedakah] does for the poor person the poor person does for the homeowner.” A person drawn to the klal and enveloped in chesed can engage many different types of people and join together with them whether in conversation Torah learning or some other activity that is mutually beneficial.
Create a free account to keep reading.
