This week’s Maor VaShemesh on Parshat Eikev presents four profound perspectives on spiritual growth. He explains that Gan Eden is not merely the reward for learning Torah, but the place where the infinite depth of the Torah we struggle to grasp in this world is finally revealed.
He then offers a striking reading of “eikev” as the key to authentic community: true spiritual greatness begins when each person sees himself not as the head, but as the “heel” of the group. He continues by teaching that even mitzvot we cannot presently fulfill should remain living aspirations, longing for the day when we can serve God completely.
Finally, he resolves the famous question, “Is fear of Heaven really such a small thing?” by arguing that humility stands even higher than fear; once a person reaches true anavah, fear of Heaven naturally follows. Four beautiful teachings that connect Torah, community, redemption, and the inner path of spiritual growth.
Use this source sheet for further exploration of Parshat Balak, complete with footnoted sources and a concise, footnoted bio of R. Kalonymus Kalman Epstein (Ma’or Va-Shemesh) to enjoy this teaching at your own pace, perfect for self-learners.
Prepared by Rabbi Shalom (Saul) Orbach
The Ma’or Va-Shemesh is a classic Hasidic commentary on the weekly portions and festivals by R. Kalonymus Kalman Epstein of Kraków (1751-1823). A foremost later disciple, and for years the Shamash, of R. Elimelech of Lizhensk, he emerged after his rebbe’s passing as a leading figure in the fourth generation of Chassidut and of Polish Hasidism. His Torah blends close reading of the Psukim with mystical depth, emphasizing Dvekut, heartfelt prayer, joy, and sanctifying the everyday, with a hallmark leadership ethic: the tzaddik sweetens judgment into mercy and draws people close.