Three Categories of Mitzvot

The “Duties of the Heart,” written by Rabbeinu Bachye, around the year 1100, is meant to help intensify the way one worships G-d.

He emphasizes “Kavanna,” which means intent, as a key towards achieving this goal. Before performing any Mitzva, there should be a moment of pause, where one asks that the performance of that Mitzva, should bring him closer to Hashem.

Rabbeinu Bachye wanted us to be aware that there are actually three categories of Mitzvot. There are those that are performed with our intellect and emotions. These include the fear and love of Hashem, acknowledging His existence and unity, and being aware to sanctify His name.

There are also Mitzvot that we perform with speech. We pray to G-d, we are careful to use our speech so that we do not hurt others, and we try to use our words, to comfort the mourners and the downtrodden.

Succot is the holiday that emphasizes the third category. We use our physical bodies to build our Succah. We show how we cherish this Mitzva, by decorating it, which shows our love for the Mitzva. We must use our feet to purchase our Lulav and Etrog. We try to buy a set that glorifies our G-d. In Temple times, all of the men had to physically appear at the Beit Hamikdash to offer sacrifices. This holiday serves as a reminder that we are meant to serve Hashem with every aspect of our being. The reward for such service, is a feeling of closeness and contentment to our Creator. There is nothing in this world that can bring such happiness and joy.

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Dwelling in the Succah

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From Yom Kippur to Succot