During our last Tea and Torah gathering we discussed the inner meaning of Shalom. We all understand it as meaning peace but the mystical deeper meaning is wholeness, completeness, being in harmony with all aspects of ourselves. It is a harmony that comes about when opposites are brought into balance.

To understand the flow of Divine Energy that comes from G-d through our bodies and energy fields we utilize a diagram of the Tree of Life. Lovingkindness (Chesed) flows from the right side and discipline/boundaries  (Gevurah) from the left. To have too much of Chesed or Gevurah isn’t healthy. When they come together in balance through compassion (Tiferet),which resides in the heart center, harmony is restored. That harmony is  Shalom. 

An example of translating this into everyday life can be when a child forgets to do his homework. Chesed (lovingkindness) says, don’t worry about it. (Warm but no accountability) Gevurah (Discipline) says, you are punished for a week! (Harsh without understanding) Bringing the two into balance (Tiferet) (compassion) says, “I understand that you had a busy week and would also rather play, but homework is a responsibility. What can we do to make sure it gets done from now on.” (Accountability without shame) 

Or here is an example with ourselves with self talk when making a mistake- Chesed  says, “I am allowed to make mistakes,  it doesn’t matter. “ (no responsibility) Gevurah  says, “I am so careless, I can’t believe I did that.” (Negating one’s self)  Tiferet says, Okay, I made a mistake. I am human. How can I rectify it and what can I learn from it? (seeing from the heart)

With Tiferet which allows us to bring the perspective of Chesed and Gevurah together, we then reside in our hearts and experience the deeper wholeness of Peace, of Shalom. 

Love Cantor Lee

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