Ever since the Temple was destroyed, "the four cubits of the Halacha" - [i.e., Torah study] - is the only sanctuary and abode which the Holy One, blessed be He, has in His world; [i.e., Torah is the only abode] for the revelation of His unity.

For the halachot set out before us are the actual embodiment of G-d's Will and wisdom, [which are one with G-d; the halachic ruling represents the Divine Will, and what underlies it is Divine wisdom. Hence in the Torah, G-d's unity stands revealed].

Therefore, after one meditates deeply, according to his ability, on the subject of this above-mentioned self-nullification, let him reflect in his heart as follows:

"The capacity of my intelligence and of my soul's root is too limited to constitute a chariot and an abode for G-d's unity in perfect truth.

"For my thought cannot grasp or apprehend His unity at all with any degree of comprehension in the world; not an iota, in fact, of that which was grasped by the Patriarchs and Prophets, [who were G-d's chariot and abode, by virtue of their awareness of G-d's unity, as they grasped it].

"This being so, I will make Him a sanctuary and an abode by studying Torah at fixed times by day and by night, to the extent of my free time, as stipulated by the law governing each individual's situation, set forth in the Laws of Torah Study.

"As our Sages say, [6] `Even one chapter in the morning and one at night...' [suffice, for one who can manage no more, for him to be regarded as `engaging in Torah study day and night.' Therefore, by fulfilling this minimal quota, I too will become an abode for G-dliness."

Thereby, his heart shall rejoice; he shall be glad and offer joyous thanks for his fortune in meriting to be the Almighty's "host" [through his study of Torah, which causes him to be a "sanctuary"] for G-d twice each day, according to the extent of his available time, and according to the capacity which G-d has granted him.

   

Notes:

6. (Back to text) Menachot 99b