Rabash. What Does the Rule "Love Thy Friend as Thyself" Give Us. 5 (1984) (19.05.2003) [2026-04-10] #lesson

This lecture by Rabash explores the spiritual significance of the commandment 'Love thy friend as thyself' within the context of Kabbalistic teachings. The speaker emphasizes that true connection with others is not based on personal feelings or emotional affinity, but on a deliberate, intentional effort to transcend ego and build unity within a group—specifically a group of ten (Minyan), which symbolizes a collective vessel for spiritual advancement. The core idea is that the Creator is revealed not through individual effort, but through the mutual correction and mutual giving among friends. The lecture delves into why the soul was divided into countless parts: to create a space where individuals can voluntarily choose to connect, thereby mimicking the Creator’s attribute of giving. This process of spiritual work requires constant self-examination, the reduction of ego, and the cultivation of a shared intention. The ultimate goal is not personal fulfillment, but the creation of a unified spiritual reality where the friend becomes a mirror for the Creator, and love emerges not as a feeling, but as a result of sustained action and mutual responsibility. The speaker stresses that the value of friendship lies not in the individual, but in the shared space between them—a space where the Creator can be revealed.