There are three forms of Hitbon'nut (contemplation, meditation):
(a.) Study-meditation: After mastering the concept thoroughly, one
meditates on its profundity, until the intellectual element shines forth for him. (b.)
Meditation before davening: This is directed toward sensing the vitality
of the concept learned, in contrast to sensing the intellectual element emphasized
in study-meditation. (c.) Meditation in Davening: To sense the
"G-dly element" in the concept learned. These three are rungs
on the ladder of sensitivity. It is only by G-d's kindness towards us that we
may occasionally sense G-dhood spontaneously, without any disciplined effort at
all. This comes about by virtue of the quality of Ultimate Essential G-dhood
within the soul. To achieve through one's own efforts, however, these three
forms of meditation are essential. |