The spiritual work of the six weekdays begins with what we call “recognition of evil.” We come to understand that the purpose of development is to become completely connected “as one man with one heart,” while recognizing that our nature is narrow egoism, an evil inclination, an inner resistance to connecting with others.
After recognizing this evil, we struggle against it in order to attain love of others. Through our mutual efforts to overcome egoism, we draw upon ourselves a connecting force, also called “light,” which corrects the bonds between us.
Within these corrected relationships, the upper force becomes revealed, which is the general force of nature, also called “God.” Its quality is goodness, love, and giving, and these are the qualities we seek to acquire ourselves.
In the past, people counted the days of the week as “the first day toward the Sabbath,” “the second day toward Shabbat,” and so on, because each day symbolizes a deeper approach to connection. Every day represents an inner correction, measuring how willing we are to rise above our ego in order to connect with others.
Friday is the culmination of all the inner efforts made throughout the week. Each day contributes a different aspect of connection, and together they lead to the eve of the Sabbath.
Throughout the week, a person exerts effort to rise above destructive egoism and dress themselves in a kind and loving attitude to others. This beautiful inner garment is symbolized by the Sabbath garments prepared in honor of the Sabbath.
On Friday, having completed our efforts toward connection, we seek to identify with the force of love and bestowal that dwells within our connected state. This is called “the sanctification of the Sabbath.”
Based on “New Life 171 – The Sabbath” with Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman. Written/edited by students of Kabbalist Dr. Michael Laitman.