Awakening the Mind: Embrace Learning Every Day
In last week’s discussion on Law 5, I touched on the importance of waking up early and using that time wisely, but I didn’t fully emphasize a key aspect: if you find yourself struggling to fill your time meaningfully, the answer lies in study.
Law 5 encourages us to rise with the dawn and suggests a structured approach to our learning. It advocates beginning with the study of the Torah, followed by the Mishna, Psalms, Ma’mados, and the book of ethics. This hierarchy isn’t just a guideline; it’s a reminder of the profound wisdom contained in our tradition, waiting to be explored. The essence is clear: engage your mind with knowledge, whatever form that may take, especially at the start of your day.
As we transition to Law 6, we see that studying can even be as simple as reciting Tehillim (Psalms). This beautifully connects us to our spiritual roots and allows us to reflect on the themes of gratitude, strength, and faith. Law 7 goes further, reminding us to express our thankfulness for the experience of learning, albeit without invoking God's name in the blessing. This is a subtle yet significant distinction, emphasizing the value of our intentions over formalities.
When I think of ways to fill my free time with enriching study, I often turn to a mix of Jewish resources and general learning platforms. Here are some great places to explore:
My Jewish Learning: This resource is fantastic for exploring various topics related to Jewish history, culture, and practice, providing a well-rounded approach to learning.
Khan Academy: This free educational platform covers a vast array of subjects, from math and science to art history and computer programming, allowing you to explore new areas of knowledge at your own pace.
Chabad.org: This site offers a wealth of resources, including daily Torah readings, articles on Jewish law, and insights into the weekly Parsha that deepen understanding and connection to our heritage.
Coursera: Offering free courses from universities around the world, Coursera is a great way to learn about topics that interest you, ranging from psychology to computer science, with many courses available for free.
YouTube Educational Channels: There are countless channels dedicated to educational content. For example, channels like CrashCourse provide engaging overviews of subjects like history, science, and literature.
TED Talks: These talks cover a wide range of topics, from personal development to technology and culture, providing inspiring insights and innovative ideas from experts across various fields.
The beauty of this law lies in its encouragement to embrace learning whenever we have the opportunity. In our fast-paced world, the 24-hour news cycle can be overwhelming and often superficial. Instead, we should seek out timeless knowledge that enriches our minds and souls. Remember, “To study a little (but) with devotion is better than much (study) without devotion.” It’s not about the quantity of what we learn but the depth of our engagement.
So, I invite you to use your mind to study something new, even if just for a few minutes each day. Each moment spent in learning is a step toward unlocking your mind’s secret potential, leading you to greater understanding and fulfillment.
Good luck on your journey of discovery!
