In Likutei Moharan II:32:2, Rebbe Nachman of Breslov unveils a profound truth: every individual carries within them a personal aspect of Mashiach. This teaching is both empowering and deeply intimate, showing that redemption is not merely a distant, cosmic event but a personal mission that unfolds through our daily lives and spiritual practices—especially through prayer and hitbodedut (personal, secluded prayer).
Rebbe Nachman begins by connecting Sefer (book) and Shem (name), noting that their shared numerical value of 340 in Hebrew gematria reveals an intrinsic link between a book and God’s Name. A holy book, containing Torah teachings, is not just a repository of words but a vessel for holiness. When such books are circulated, they “spread His Name” throughout the world. This process reveals Godliness and makes a name for the book and its author, embedding divine recognition in creation. The preservation of Torah teachings, even when spiritual challenges arise, becomes a sacred duty to ensure the continued flow of Godliness into the world.
From this outward mission, Rebbe Nachman turns inward, declaring that each of us must safeguard our personal connection to Mashiach. This responsibility is not about lofty expectations or perfection. Instead, it is deeply tied to how we cultivate purity, spiritual alignment, and connection with HaShem. Rebbe Nachman emphasizes that guarding against immorality—particularly in thought and action—protects and strengthens this personal spark of Mashiach within us.
This idea finds deeper expression in a verse from Lamentations: “The breath of our nostrils, the Mashiach of God.” Rebbe Nachman explains that Mashiach is closely tied to the sense of smell, which symbolizes spiritual sensitivity and purity. Just as a pleasing scent can captivate and draw attention, the spirit of Mashiach, both within us and in the broader world, will attract souls to HaShem. This divine “fragrance” signifies life, vitality, and a profound recognition of HaShem’s presence.
The connection to smell is not coincidental. In Jewish tradition, the sense of smell has a unique purity—it was untouched by sin in the Garden of Eden. It represents a direct, uncorrupted link to the soul. Rebbe Nachman teaches that the anointing oil of Mashiach will carry this sacred fragrance, drawing people toward holiness and awakening recognition of HaShem’s Kingdom.
At the heart of this teaching is the practice of hitbodedut—personal, secluded prayer. For Rebbe Nachman, hitbodedut is the primary way to safeguard and nourish the spark of Mashiach within us. It is through authentic, heartfelt dialogue with HaShem that we maintain our spiritual vitality and refine our character. In hitbodedut, we confront our struggles, seek guidance, and reconnect with our divine purpose. These moments of prayer are like the breath of our nostrils, infusing life into the spark of Mashiach within.
Rebbe Nachman’s teaching reminds us that this process is both deeply personal and profoundly practical. Each time we choose to live with spiritual integrity—guarding our thoughts, speaking truth, and choosing actions that reflect holiness—we preserve and expand the divine Name within ourselves. This is not limited to grand gestures; even the quiet, seemingly small victories in daily life strengthen our connection to Mashiach.
For example, imagine someone grappling with feelings of frustration or despair. Instead of succumbing to negativity, they step outside for a moment of hitbodedut. They pour out their heart to HaShem, asking for strength and clarity. In that moment of prayer, they align themselves with the divine, breathing new life into their spirit. These small, intentional acts of connection are what keep the spark of Mashiach alive.
Rebbe Nachman’s teachings extend beyond personal redemption to include how we contribute to the world. Whether through Torah study, acts of kindness, or creative works inspired by holiness, we are actively spreading God’s Name. Each of these actions becomes part of the collective mission of redemption.
Ultimately, this lesson is a call to return to prayer, to hitbodedut, and to the daily work of living with intention and purity. The spark of Mashiach is within each of us, waiting to be fanned into a flame through our choices and our connection to HaShem. With every sincere prayer and every step toward holiness, we help draw the world closer to its ultimate purpose. Redemption begins with the breath of our nostrils, the whisper of hitbodedut, and the sacred fragrance of lives lived in alignment with divine truth.
In my book Pick Me Up HaShem, you’ll find many prayers that explore how HaShem is constantly drawing us closer to Him, inviting us into a deeper relationship through prayer and reflection. These prayers are designed to help you connect with the divine presence in a way that transcends mere requests and taps into the true purpose of prayer.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into these spiritual truths, consider studying Kabbalah, the mystical tradition that unlocks the profound secrets of our reality and draws us closer to HaShem’s divine wisdom. Delve into teachings that illuminate the “why” behind the Torah, connecting the layers of Creation in a synergized whole and offering a glimpse of HaShem in a way no other study can. From the timeless wisdom of Rabbi Chaim Vital and the Arizal to the unifying insights of Rabbi Sar-Shalom Sharabi (Rashash), Kabbalah not only transforms your spiritual understanding but also brings peace, protection, and redemption closer to our world. Sponsor my study in this sacred tradition and receive its blessings for sustenance, health, and family, ensuring that the powerful light of Kabbalah shines in your merit.
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