The PaRDeS framework invites seekers to journey through the “orchard” of divine wisdom, engaging with scripture on multiple levels. By exploring literal meanings, uncovering symbolic hints, deriving moral lessons, and delving into mystical truths, we cultivate a richer connection to sacred texts and the divine. Use this study guide to deepen your engagement with the Torah and uncover the layers of meaning within its timeless teachings.

What is PaRDeS?

Jewish tradition, PaRDeS (literally “orchard”) is a framework for interpreting sacred texts. It reveals four distinct levels of understanding, allowing seekers to delve into the Torah’s depths, from its surface meaning to its mystical secrets. The term PaRDeS is an acronym for:

1. Peshat (Simple): The literal or straightforward meaning of the text.
2. Remez (Hint): The allegorical or symbolic layer that hints at deeper truths.
3. Derash (Homiletical): The moral, ethical, or philosophical interpretation.
4. Sod (Secret): The mystical and esoteric understanding.

Each level builds on the previous one, forming a comprehensive approach to uncovering divine wisdom.

Walking in the Orchard

Peshat (Literal Meaning)

Peshat is the plain and direct interpretation of the text based on its language and context. For examples, let’s looke at “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). Looking at this in a plain way, the commandment means to respect and care for one’s parents in practical ways, such as providing for their needs.

Remez (Hint)

This level finds symbolic meanings or allusions within the text. Let’s use that same example again, “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). The word “honor” (כבד) comes from the root of kavod (כבד) also means “weight” or “heaviness,” suggesting something substantial, significant, or worthy of reverence. The directive to honor one’s father can symbolically point to God as the “Father of creation,” emphasizing the need to recognize His role as the origin and sustainer of life.

In Hebrew thought, the earth (adamah) is seen as a partner in creation, providing the physical foundation for human life and reflecting God’s creative power. The instruction to honor one’s mother can also be understood symbolically as a call to honor the earth, often viewed in ancient and mystical traditions as the nurturing and sustaining “Mother” of creation. 

The word kavod in Exodus 20:12 then carries a profound dual meaning, inviting us to respect and honor not only our earthly parents but also the ultimate Father (God) and the nurturing Mother (earth). By doing so, we align ourselves with the deeper spiritual principles of creation, gratitude, and stewardship.  

Derash (Homiletical Meaning)

Derash is the interpretation that derives moral or ethical lessons, often by combining various texts and exploring broader themes. Let’s look again at “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). A stable family structure, where respect and care are mutual, creates the conditions for societal harmony, trust, and order.When children learn to honor their parents, they are more likely to honor other forms of legitimate authority, such as teachers, leaders, and societal laws, fostering a well-ordered and respectful community.

The commandment emphasizes the transmission of values, traditions, and moral teachings across generations. This reciprocal relationship nurtures a sense of responsibility, fostering stability in familial and societal bonds. This commandment can be understood as emphasizing the importance of family structure and societal stability, teaching that respect for authority begins in the home.

Exodus 20:12 can teach us on the Sod level that honoring our parents is foundational to personal development, family harmony, and societal stability. By fostering respect within the home, this commandment creates a ripple effect of respect for authority and responsibility across society, ensuring that communities thrive through mutual care, order, and continuity.

Sod (Mystical Meaning)

This is the esoteric level that uncovers hidden, spiritual truths often linked to Kabbalistic teachings. Let’s look again at “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). In Mormon Kabbalah, the “father” and “mother” can represent the Sefirot of Da’at and Chochmah (wisdom), divine attributes that work together to bring creation into being. Honoring both God as Father and the earth as Mother encourages a holistic approach to reverence—one that acknowledges the divine source of life and the material world as a sacred gift.

This perspective fosters a sense of responsibility to care for both spiritual and physical creation. suggesting that honoring these divine attributes leads to spiritual enlightenment. This layered interpretation encourages a comprehensive approach to reverence that bridges the human, divine, and cosmic dimensions of existence, bringing a deeper meaning to the verse.

Applying PaRDeS

Choose a verse from the Torah, such as “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3), and analyze it through the four levels:

1. Peshat: What does the text say literally?
2. Remez: What symbolic meanings or hints can you find?
3. Derash: What ethical or philosophical lessons can be drawn?
4. Sod: What mystical insights or spiritual truths does it reveal?

Write down your findings and reflect on how each layer of interpretation enhances your understanding of the verse.

Discussion Questions

If you are taking this course independently, please use the quiz to turn in your answers. 

1. Peshat: How does understanding the plain meaning of a text provide a foundation for deeper exploration?
2. Remez: Can you identify another verse in the Torah or Book of Mormon that seems to hint at a deeper concept through its phrasing or word choice?
3. Derash: How can exploring moral lessons in scripture help us apply ancient teachings to modern life?
4. Sod: How does engaging with mystical interpretations deepen your spiritual connection to the text?
5. How does the PaRDeS approach encourage both intellectual inquiry and spiritual growth?
6. How do the four levels of PaRDeS work together to provide a multi-dimensional understanding of scripture?
7. Which level of interpretation feels most accessible to you? Which feels most challenging?
8. Can you think of a verse in the Torah, Book of Mormon, or another sacred text that you’d like to explore using all four levels of PaRDeS? How might the different interpretations complement one another?