GATEWAYS TO TORAT HAYIM

 
CONNECTING TO JEWISH LIVING WISDOM RESOURCES

 

The Ikkar (main aspect) of Yom Tov (festival holy days)

by The Sefat Emet, translated by A. Green

“These are the appointed seasons of the Lord, holy assemblies

that you shall call forth in their appointed times.”

(Vayikra 23:4)

 

“The inner life force of God that exists within all creatures is revealed on these festivals. That is why they are called mikra’ey kodesh, ‘holy assemblies’… [One] can call forth the holiness of these days, and also…the holiness itself calls forth to us.

 

‘Holy’ refers to the innermost point [of Divine essence within in each creature]. Even though this point gives life to all, it remains separated from the physical being; God is holy and separate. [However, on the Holy Days, this holiness is revealed].”