10 March 2025 · A sentence from the teachings of Rav Kook
View source on Facebook →
Joy in an Incomplete World
„And with his knowledge of the great extent of what he lacks in perfection, this does not at all prevent him from rejoicing in the little that he has, for since his views and traits proceed along the path of the reckoning of truth, no one idea impedes its fellow at all.”From Musar Avicha, III
How can we be joyful when we lack so much? When the world lacks so much? How can one rejoice when there is a lack within us or in the world around us? The Rav explains that this is the root of the difference between the joy of pride and the joy of humility. The fact that we have not reached the ultimate goal is not a cause for sadness, but for adding strength in order to advance further and further, for this is our life's mission. When we wait for perfection in order to rejoice, we sentence ourselves to a sad life. When we understand that advancing step by step is our goal, then we will rejoice and advance.
*
From the community archive of Mishpetei HaRav Kook — studying Rav Kook's teachings since 2011.