The idea that a human being ought to actually feel love toward the Divine is perhaps the great innovation of monotheism. Take a look at the Shema—the basic credo of the faith of Israel. First come the words: “Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.” That sentence appeals to the mind; it expresses acceptance of an idea—belief in the One God. Now look at the very next words, and you will find that they address not the mind but the heart: “And you shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your might, and with all your soul.” The Torah is clear about this. The most
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