16 Kislev: Faith and Understanding

FAITH AND UNDERSTANDING The Baal Shem Tov shows us the proper way to serve G-d. The Alter Rebbe shows how we can actually achieve this. (HaTamim, vol. 2, pg. 76b; Sefer HaMaamarim 5708, pg. 292) Chassidus reveals our Divine essence in two stages. First, Chassidus reveals our faith in G-d. This gives us a taste of the perfection of Moshiach; however, it remains beyond us. This stage was accomplished by the Baal Shem Tov. Second, Chassidus brings our faith into understanding, so that we sense G-dliness in every aspect of life. Through this, Moshiach permeates every aspect of our being. The Alter Rebbe initiated this stage with Chabad Chassidus, which was founded on understanding. We can only fully internalize and spread out the teachings of Chassidus by learning and understanding. Faith alone can only give us a taste of Moshiach, but it cannot bring Moshiach down to earth. Likkutei Sichos, vol. 19, pp. 245-9