— Nefesh

Self

“There is the one who sings the song of their own soul in themselves they find everything, their full spiritual satisfaction.”

Rav Kook explains that each of us is rooted in our individual subjective identity. He describes the importance of each individual’s physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual experience. We are each a microcosm of the whole. Therefore a healthy integration of all aspects of our personal identity is the basis of our national, universal and cosmic significance in the wondrous miracle of existence.

This understanding is relevant to all humankind. Rav Kook’s insights will be of interest to all human beings interested in self-development and growth.

— Song of Self

There is one who sings the song of his own life, and in himself he finds everything, his full spiritual satisfaction.

Every person must know that they are called to serve according to their unique understanding and feeling, according to the prompting of their own soul. In that world which embraces endless other worlds, they will find the treasure of their own soul. 

Let them not be confused by suggestions streaming to them from alien worlds, which they cannot properly comprehend. These worlds will find their perfection, in their own place, among those especially suited to establish and perfect them. But they must concentrate on their own inner worlds which are full of everything and embrace everything for them. A person must say “For my sake was the world created.” (Mishna Sanhedrin 4:5)

This humility will bring happiness to a person and bring them to a higher perfection which stands waiting for them. By stepping in this sure way of life, in the path of the righteous especially meant for them, they will fill themselves with the strength of life and spiritual joy. And the light of God will reveal itself to them. From their unique letter of the Torah will go forth their strength and light. (Notebook 4:6)

 Content that is coming to you from the outside world that you cannot absorb properly, that you cannot integrate into your bundle of life. These will find their repair with those who are able to build and perfect them. But you must concentrate on your own experience, on your own inner worlds. They will fill you completely and encompass everything.  ‘A person must say that the world was created for me’ (Mishna Sanhedrin 4:5)

This great humility enriches the person. It brings them to their highest completion that is awaiting.