Rabash. What Is the Difference between Law and Judgment in the Work?. 26 (1988) (28.02.2003) [2026-04-17] #lesson

This Kabbalah lesson, based on a 2003 teaching by Rav and an article by Rabash, explores the profound distinction between 'law' and 'judgment' in spiritual work. Law refers to faith above reason—actions performed without understanding, such as observing mitzvot as an 'ox to the yoke' or 'donkey to the burden'—a state of spiritual coercion where the individual acts against their natural will to receive. This stage is essential for exiting self-love and preparing the vessel (Malchut) to receive higher spiritual light. Judgment, in contrast, is Torah received within reason—the intellectual and emotional understanding of divine purpose, attainable only after one has been rewarded with the 'law' of faith above reason. The lesson uses the story of Moses and Rabbi Akiva to illustrate that true spiritual advancement requires moving from blind obedience to a personal, reasoned connection with the Creator. The process is not linear but involves constant struggle: the 'who is the Lord?' question arises when one attempts to work for bestowal without reward, confronting the ego’s resistance. The solution lies in using societal inspiration—the collective upliftment from the group—to fuel one’s spiritual ascent, transforming external motivation into internal spiritual fuel. Ultimately, the path from law to judgment is a journey of inner transformation, where the individual, through sustained effort and group connection, builds the spiritual vessels (screens) needed to receive the light of bestowal and achieve true adhesion with the Creator.