One of the most outstanding works of Jewish Ethics is R. Moses Qordovero's (Ramaq) Tomer Devorah. Ramaq was one of the great Kabbalists from 16th century Safed. The work presents an ethical model based on the 13 attributes of mercy (13 Middot HaRahamim) and the Sefirot. Tomer Devorah was originally a section of Eilemah Rabbati, which was a by Ramaq on the Sefirot. As such, one element of understanding the sefirotic system is through its use in our lives. How do our actions effect or how are our actions affected by the divine chain from Keter to Malchut and vice versa.
The first section is a theoretical description of how we are to treat other people, working towards the ideal of being kind even to those who seem to be completely removed from "deserving" kindness. His premise is that if G-d has infinite mercy, we too should strive to live a life of infinite mercy. Ramaq ties this discussion into the highest sefirah, Keter.
In today's world, is this ideal something we can truly emulate? Are we too encumbered by worrying about the I that we cannot allow for being able to overcome the hurts and pains needed to continue to help someone in need?
I will take up a more detailed discussion of this first section, attempting to present a thorough read of the various levels of mercy which Ramaq charges us with reaching.
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