What is the purpose of evil in the world? Couldn’t G-d have achieved whichever goal He desired in a gentler way? Rabbi Kirzner delves into the cumulative effect of our actions, even when we don’t see it. That having been said, it is ultimately up to mankind to eradicate evil from the universe, first from within himself and then from the world around him. Along with a deep understanding of why our world is so confusing, and the role of the yetzer hara.
Evil is from a void of G-d’s flow. We need to decide what to do in that void. Hashem gave different capacities different powers in the world and within Evil is just the flip of good, where that energy is being held back. Why didn’t Hashem simplify? Meant for our good, so we can form meaningful relationships with Hashem. Meant to see different actions of Hashem differently.
How does evil come about? There is actually an evolution of evil, from the little potential of it that is grown to greater levels due to us. R’ Kirzner uses mashal of embryo to explain. Has potential for all, but depends what focus on in it to pull that into reality. Challenging it is there to make us great. However, positive energy is always flowing. But through the choice of man its directed differently
For both the potential and actuality of the world had to be willed from Hashem. This relates directly to the confusing subject of G-d's omnipotence and the need to be able to express our inner abilities in reality. The constrainment of G-d's energy which leaves an opening for evil is meant for the condition of man and the challenges he must face. How can kedusha be preserved in face of all the negativity?
Anything that is not whole or wholesome naturally disintegrates. Evil therefore must eventually be nullified, because by nature it is imperfect. Before it actually rots away, is it possible for negativity to grow to the point it can take over the world? Rabbi Kirzner discusses the limitations of evil, and the proof that G-d wanted the world to be imperfect at first. However, the ultimate good to come is shows clearly that G-d had the capacity to create that from the start, had He so chosen.
If evil is imperfection, does that mean anything that is not perfect is negative? Not at all, says Rabbi Kirzner. Follow a brilliant discussion on growing towards greatness, with a comparison of angels and men, and some surprising conclusions on who is actually considered greater.
The world was created with tremendous wisdom. However, the greatest aspect of that wisdom is man’s capacity to deeply affect such an intricate system. How does the Jewish nation is specific have the capacity to change the status quo? Along with a discussion on the end of the process, when mankind comes to a level of clsoenes and pleasure that we can’t imagine.
Rabbi Kirzner gives five reasons for evil having positive affects, some of which are providing the opportunity for spiritual development, as well as making the world a better world when he actually overcomes them. These goals wouldn’t be realized without evil being part of the total system. Creation means making everything necessary for human development.
Isolated negative forces have nothing positive to them. But when they are seen in total view of the picture of the world and life, we can see a greater good. Rabbi Kirzner explores the idea of how individuals who have great capacity for evil also have that potential for good. Learn about individual levels of holiness, and how depending your spiritual level, the effect you have is either greater or smaller.
Evil must be limited in order that it won't destroy the world it is affecting. However, how does it reach the point of self-destruction? Learn about the cycle of negativity, and how the disconnection from good grows bigger and bigger until it is forced into nullification. Hear how repentance fit into the picture.