The Secret of Jewish Spirituality
"Horse and rider He threw into the sea." (Shemot 15:1)
"Horse" connotes speed and increase. "Rider" connotes a tranquil mind that controls the movement of the horse. When the nations of the world seek earthly pleasures, they do not have the inner strength to control their passions. Therefore, concerning them, the verse mentions "horse" before "rider." Conversely, regarding Klal Yisrael, the Torah states, "When you ride upon your horses and chariots of redemption" (Havakuk 3:8). First the verse says "you," i.e., the rider, and afterwards "horse." Implying that when Klal Yisrael receives good, HaShem first implants the appropriate reverence of HaShem within their hearts. Therefore, "when you ride" implies mastery over our passions, and "upon your horses" implies the pursuit of pure goodness.
Lesson: HaShem helps Klal Yisrael to attain holiness by awakening a deep awareness of HaShem within our hearts before we engage in worldly concerns.
Visualization: Take a second before you make Kiddush on Friday night to envision Rabbi Yisrael Salanter at his Shabbos table. See him make Kiddush with great awe of HaShem and an increased recognition of His unbounded kindness. Sense his composure, holiness, and joy when he drinks the Shabbos wine. Transpose Rabbi Salanter's awe of the Creator to your heart. Make or listen to the Kiddush with a renewed awareness of HaShem. Partake of the wine and the Shabbos meal with holiness and joy.
[Based on the Mei HaShilo'och]
