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Three Levels of the Soul
How is the human soul recognizable to the outside world? We may
speak of a hierarchy of three levels:
The Symbolism of Tzitzit
The ultimate manifestation of the soul in the outside world is in its day-to-
day deportment. If our character traits constitute a metaphoric garment
that clothes the soul, then our deeds are tassels that emanate from the
corners of the garment. Each trait of the soul is revealed in a variety of
actions, since different situations require specific responses. These varied
actions are like the many tzitziot (tassels), extending naturally from the
corners of the garment.
To summarize the metaphor:
We are accustomed to the tassels being white, but the actual Halachic
requirement is that they be the same color as the garment. Sharing the
same color indicates that our actions derive their power and direction
from the garment, i.e., our character traits.
One thread, however, is not the color of the garment. The Torah
instructs us to tie an additional thread, dyed sky-blue techelet. This color
reminds us of hidden, sublime matters: the sea, the sky, and God's Holy
Throne (Sotah 17a). Sky-blue is the background color of the universe.
The techelet thread connects us to the very Source of life, from whom all forces
flow. Together with the other threads, which correspond to the color of
the garment and represent the diverse range of human activity, the techelet
thread complements and completes the function of the tassels.
The Torah teaches that the mitzvah of wearing tzitzit corresponds
to all 613 mitzvot: "When you see [the tassels], you will remember
all of God's commandments and you will observe them" (Num. 15:39). By
wearing a garment with these special tassels, we envelop our souls in the
Torah's magnificent fabric of values and deeds.
(Gold from the Land of Israel, pp. 246-248. Adapted from Olat Re'iyah vol. I, pp. 4-5)
Copyright © 2006 by Chanan Morrison
"Speak to the Israelites and tell them to to make tassels
(tzitzit) on the corners of their garments for all generations. They shall
include a thread of sky-blue [wool] in the corner tassels." (Num.
15:38)
The innermost level, the soul itself, is in fact hidden from the
outside world. The soul can only be observed through the outer two
evels, its traits and actions. Character traits are like the soul's 'clothing.'
Through its distinctive characteristics, the soul reveals itself to the outside
world. This is similar to the way we present ourselves to others through
our garments. We are judged by the style and quality of our clothes. Yet,
we are not our clothes; we may change them at will. So too, we are judged
by our character traits, but they are external to the soul itself, and may be
changed.
The Thread of Techelet