BS’D
Going into the three weeks it is very important to try to better understand the concept behind galut haShechinah haKedosha. What does it mean to ‘lift the Shechinah from ashes’? It is a deep and mysterious concept however in the most simplistic terms Chazal explain that we are to take whatever action needed to lessen the pain of the Shechinah.
We are taught that the Shechinah is with Ahm Yisrael in their exile as is written, ‘Bçhol tzaratam lo tzar’ and Ímo Anochi B’tzara’. We cannot fathom the idea of the Shechinah being in sorrow; it is only the righteous who are able to ‘feel’ the pain as they constantly cleave to Hashem in all of their ways.
Every mitzvah we do carries with it the opportunity to ‘lift the Shechinah up’ and lessen Her pain. Each moment that we refine our character traits and go beyond our natural tendencies we give nachat ruach to Hashem. Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai ztk’l teaches, ‘Oy to those who did not find themselves able to at that time (the time before Mashiach) contribute to the end of the Shechinah’s exile.’
By contrast the Rav says, ‘Happy is the one who took part in removing the Shechinah from exile for he will bask in the light of the Kings joy.’
