~Orientation and Preparation~
Rabbi Moshe Cordovero and the “Incremental Approach”
Rabbi Moshe Cordovero, the saintly author of Tomer Devorah, advises us to adapt the “incremental approach” when contemplating the “Esoteric Wisdom of the Torah.” First study and reflect upon a modest portion today, letting it slowly settle into your consciousness. Then tomorrow, a bit more study and further contemplation. The important thing is to take small steps that the mind can assimilate. Then, with patience and consistency, your understanding will slowly but steadily advance, with HaShem’s Assistance!
Daily Readings
~In keeping with this idea, this book has been divided into fifty convenient and digestible daily readings. Our advice is to slowly and deliberately go through one section per day, so you can properly appreciate and assimilate the ideas presented therein. Then, over the course of that day, reflect upon what you’ve learned. The following day, read the next passage in the same considered fashion as the first. Proceed through the whole book in this manner, taking the time to savor the words and feel the beauty of the “journey,” and be inspired!
~To help the reader more readily integrate the information, Hebrew terms, and Kabbalistic concepts are clearly and concisely defined and explained in the commentary. Additionally, many parables and analogies have been presented to facilitate understanding and aid in processing the ideas. To assist the reader grasp the required and essential information, the method of “reduction of terms,” has been utilized.
~The Introduction of the book builds a database of terms, definitions, and foundational principles to shed light on the concepts of Tomer Devorah. While this section is vitally important, it is not replete with “practical lessons,” which are the hallmark of of other Salant Foundation publications. We advise our dear readers to view these remarks as if they are “stepping stones” to access the majestic palace of Tomer Devorah.
