49) THE PRIVACY OF PIETY:

The Torah describes how Aharon must light the lamps of the Menorah. Aharon lights the lamps and the Torah says; “Aharon did so”[1]. Rashi comments; “This teaches that Aharon did not change.”

Amazingly, although Aharon just participated in what surely must have been a most uplifting spiritual event, he did not change!

The Kotzker says; “We find that Aharon was never visibly moved by any of the holy work that he performed. His spirituality was completely hidden within. External manifestations of holiness have no roots in true spirituality. The real spiritual experience takes place only within the inner recesses of the heart (and is never on show for all the world to see).”[2]

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[1] Bamidbar 8:3

[2] Amud HaEmet p. 86 par. 4

43) SPIRITUALITY IS NOT FOR DISPLAY:

Chassidut in general talks about the pivotal role and vital importance of hitlahavut (emotional and spiritual enthusiasm).

Interestingly, this is what the Kotzker has to say about it:

“The hitlahavut of the Jew towards Torah and the service of G-d, has to be hidden within the innermost recesses of the heart, and not exposed for all to see.”[1]

In Kotzk, spirituality, if it is to remain pure, is intensely personal if not private, and is not to be paraded nor worn on one’s sleeve. 

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[1] Amud HaEmet p.69, par. 2

This is alluded to by the small letter ‘mem’ in ‘mokdah’ (Vayikra 6:2), and by the large letter ‘tuf’ in ‘tamim tiheyeh’.