Question: An ox works under coercion, under the pressure of its owner. That is, the owner is effectively present in its life. How can we make the ten into such a factor that obligates us to move forward?
Answer: There are a few actions we can take for that. First, observe how the friends give each other strength, how they inspire one another, how they hold themselves on the path. In this way, we gradually share the bit of enthusiasm we each have with one another and keep moving forward.
Question: Can we make the ten, which is a visible factor in the work, also become an extension of the Creator, so that the Creator would be revealed in it like that owner?
Answer: No, the Creator does not do that and will not do that. Because then it would turn out that we are working for the Creator because we feel Him.
Question: But is the point not to work for the sake of the Creator?
Answer: The point is to work for the sake of the Creator because we want to give Him contentment.
Question: Can an ox reach a state where it works not out of coercion but because it wants to please the owner?
Answer: For that, several conditions must be fulfilled. The work must not be done under pressure from the Creator. A person must correctly build their desire toward the Creator, meaning to give contentment to the Creator, and they must be free in this. They must decide that their goal is to bring contentment to the Creator.
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From the 1st part of the Daily Kabbalah Lesson 7/8/2025, “To be as an Ox to the Burden and as a Donkey to the Load”
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