„The labor of Torah and wisdom, which requires rest, that rest is not…”
„The labor of Torah and wisdom, which requires rest, that rest is not merely a necessity but a foundational matter. The intellect in its innermost depth must exert itself at its source; whatever learning does in its shadows clouds its lights, and the intermittent rest comes and brings that brilliant light upon matters, spreading forth its cloud of radiance.”From Shemonah Kevatzim, VI, 95
Sometimes we need a pause. To stop the flow of ordinary life and rest, to take a short or long vacation, to rest.
Rav Kook teaches the novel idea that this need does not arise from the weakness of the flesh, but is part of our work. The rest we need is an inseparable part of our building, just as hard work is a part.
There are those who wait for their body to stop them, and thereby merit rest; this is one of the causes of illness: the body tells a person to stop, and if you will not do so yourself, I will force you.
We must remember this and sense our inner needs. We must try as much as possible to listen to our inner spirit.
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For the recovery of Roza bat Buba.
From the community archive of Mishpetei HaRav Kook — studying Rav Kook's teachings since 2011.