Mishpatim (1b): Mercifully Righteous

In a previous post we explained that the Torah teaches us the abstract concept that the Tzadikim are empowered to redirect the stricter energies of the universe to places that will not harm the Yidden and will instead serve to lay down the law on those who seek our harm.

Let's take a moment to explain the depth of this idea and its practical ramifications.

Chazal teach that HaKadosh Baruch Hu originally sought to create a world that stood on Din alone. A world where there would be no leniency or mercy in the processes of cause and effect. A sin can generate astonishing destruction, and that destruction was to be obvious and unmitigated.

Although this is ideal in a sense, Hashem knew that the creations would not be able to live under the pressures and intensity of such a reality. Each and every wrongdoing would threaten the very fabric of reality. And even if we were to survive, the blatant obviousness of such interaction would deprive us of our basic right to free choice. Try sticking your hand in the cookie jar when you know the jar will tear your hand off.

To this end, Hashem added the Midah of Rachamim, the attribute of mercy into the equation. The installation of Rachamim into the greater framework allowed for the spectral systems of cause and effect to be subtle and and nuanced in a way that we can exist with free choice and not be instantly obliterated by our own action.

There are a plethora of explanations as to what this means, but we shall focus on the explanation of  R' Sheur Zalman of Liadi, known as the Ba'al HaTanya. Says the Ba'al HaTanya, the concept of 'adding Midas HaRachamim' is to be taken to mean that Hashem planted the souls of Tzadikim in each generation. Their constant presence maintains world order.

There are many manifestations of this truth. Their potent Koach HaTefilah (power of prayer), their willingness to undertake hardship so that others will suffer less and the focused direction of their good deeds are but a few of the ways that they themselves are the embodiment of how Rachamim was coupled with Din.

With this is mind we can more deeply appreciate what it means that the Tzadikim have the ability to mold and shift energies of Din that reverberate through the universe, for this is the very purpose of the conception of the Tzadik in the first place.

Jewish thought, particularly the Derech of Chassidus deeply enforces the need to connect one's self to Tzadikim. Seasoned Ovdei Hashem can help us tap into higher levels of spirituality. This is the meaning of Shlomo HaMelech's instruction to speak out our personal issues with proper mentors. דאגה בלב איש ישיחנה: By simply involving a true Tzadik in my goings on I am inserting his presence of Divine Rachamim into what I am currently experiencing as Din.