Jewish mysticism has some profound insights into that feeling, and how to reignite that spark.
Let's dive into a passage from the Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei_Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei Zohar, specifically Tikkun 98. This section uses the image of a candle to describe the human being and the interplay between the Written Torah and the soul. It's beautiful, poetic, and surprisingly practical.
The Tikkunei Zohar tells us that the human being, the adam, is like the 'light' of a candle – nahir in Aramaic, meaning "shining." Within that light, shines the Written Torah. Think of the Torah as the fuel, the potential for illumination.
And the soul? Ah, the soul is the 'candle' itself. And within the candle, shines mitzvah – precept, good deed, commandment. It's the actions we take, the choices we make, that allow the soul to truly glow.
But what happens when the light and the candle don't shine? When that inner spark starts to fade? The Tikkunei Zohar paints a stark picture. It says that when the light and candle don't shine, it's said of the soul: "Do not look upon me for I am blackened," (Song of Songs 1:6). And of the person: "I shall dress the heavens with darkness..." (Isaiah 50:3). Pretty powerful imagery, right?
It suggests that when we neglect the Torah's wisdom and fail to perform mitzvot, the consequences aren't just spiritual – they affect our very being and even the world around us. Talk about high stakes!
So, what is this candle, this NeR, anyway? The text breaks it down for us. NeR – Nun-Reish – is actually an acronym. The Nun (נ) stands for Nefesh – the animating soul, the life force within us. And the Reish (ר) represents Ruach – the spirit, the emotional and intellectual energy that drives us.
So, according to this passage, the candle, the NeR, is made up of both our life force (Nefesh) and our spirit (Ruach). When both are engaged and fueled by Torah and good deeds, we shine. When they're neglected… well, you remember the darkness.
What does all this mean for us today? Maybe it's a reminder to nurture both our body and our soul. To engage with wisdom and to actively seek opportunities to do good. It is a call to keep that inner candle burning bright. Because when we shine, we not only illuminate our own lives, but we also contribute to a brighter world. What action can you take today to add more fuel to your NeR?