Likewise in the category of "doing good" [one can employ the power of his "hidden love]," to strengthen himself like a lion with might and determination of heart, against the evil nature which weighs down his body and casts over him a sloth, which stems from the element of Earth that is in his animal soul. [7]

[This laziness prevents him] from exerting his body energetically with every type of effort and strain, in the service of G-d that entails effort and toil.

For example, to labor in the Torah with deep concentration, and also orally, so that "his mouth will never cease from Torah study"; as our Sages have said: [8] "A man should always submit to the words of Torah like the ox to the yoke, and the ass to the load."

Similarly with regard to devout prayer, [he should exert himself] with all the strength he can muster.

So too with regard to serving G-d in monetary matters, such as the duty of charity, [9]

   

Notes:

7. (Back to text) See ch. 1.

8. (Back to text) Avodah Zarah 5b.

9. (Back to text) The three examples given here correspond to the three "pillars" of Torah, avodah, and gemilut chassadim.