This study guide encourages deep reflection on the themes presented in Neum: The Oracle or the Declarations Chapter Five through a Kabbalistic lens. By exploring key Kabbalistic concepts such as the Divine presence, the relationship between wisdom and understanding, the importance of purification, and the spiritual journey of returning to unity with the Creator, readers are invited to engage in a deeper understanding of the mystical and ethical teachings found in this text.

Questions for Further Exploration

Exploring the Sefirot

Research the Sefirot in Kabbalah and identify where themes in this text may correspond to specific Sefirot (e.g., Chochmah, Da’at, Tiferet, etc.).

• How does the text speak to the flow of divine light through the Sefirot? How can we access these divine energies in our own lives?

Contemplating Unity and Separation:

In Kabbalistic teachings, the ultimate goal is to restore the unity between the individual soul and the Divine. Reflect on the concept of unity in this text and in Kabbalah.

• What are the barriers that separate us from the Divine, and how can we overcome them to experience greater unity?

Meditation on the “Broken Heart”

Neum suggests coming before the Divine with a “broken heart and contrite spirit.” Reflect on what this means in Kabbalistic terms.

• Consider engaging in a meditation or prayer that focuses on humility, repentance, and the desire to reconnect with the Divine through a pure heart.

The Return of the Shekinah

Explore the concept of the Shekinah in Kabbalah, particularly in relation to exile and return.

• How can we, as individuals and as a community, facilitate the return of the Shekinah in our lives and in the world?

Engaging with Parables and Mystical Teachings

Neum speaks of parables and mysteries that must be unlocked. Reflect on the role of parables and riddles in spiritual growth.

• How do we approach mystical teachings with openness and humility to uncover deeper truths?

Prayer and Action

Based on the themes of this text, develop a prayer or affirmation that acknowledges the sovereignty of YHVH, the importance of wisdom, and the need for repentance and spiritual growth.

• How can you apply these insights in your daily life to foster a deeper connection with the Divine?

Application Activities

1. Exploring the Sefirot (Emanations of God)

Activity:

• Research the 12 Sefirot in Mormon Kabbalah and identify where themes in this text may correspond to specific Sefirot. (Book of Remembrance Chapter 33 can get you started.)

Reflection:

• How does the text speak to the flow of divine light through the Sefirot? How can we access these divine energies in our own lives?

2. Contemplating Unity and Separation

Activity:

• In Kabbalistic teachings, the ultimate goal is to restore the unity between the individual soul and the Divine. Reflect on the concept of unity in this text and in Kabbalah.

Reflection:

• What are the barriers that separate us from the Divine, and how can we overcome them to experience greater unity?

3. Meditation on the Broken Heart

Activity:

• Engage in a meditation or prayer that focuses on humility, repentance, and the desire to reconnect with the Divine through a pure heart.

Reflection:

• The text suggests coming before the Divine with a “broken heart and contrite spirit.” Reflect on what this means in Kabbalistic terms.

4. The Return of the Shekinah

Activity:

• Explore the concept of the Shekinah in Kabbalah, particularly in relation to exile and return.

Discussion:

• On your own or with a group, discuss the question: How can we, as individuals and as a community, facilitate the return of the Shekinah in our lives and in the world?

5. Engaging with Parables and Mystical Teachings

Activity:

• The text speaks of parables and mysteries that must be unlocked. Reflect on the role of parables and riddles in spiritual growth.

Discussion:

• On your own or with a group, discuss the following question: How do we approach mystical teachings with openness and humility to uncover deeper truths?

5. Prayer and Action

Activity:

• Based on the themes of this chapter, develop a prayer or affirmation that acknowledges the sovereignty of YHVH, the importance of wisdom, and the need for repentance and spiritual growth.

Reflection:

• How can you apply these insights in your daily life to foster a deeper connection with the Divine?