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There is no free man, save for he who occupies
himself with the study of Torah
Ethics of the Fathers, 6:2
Among the great technological achievements of the last quarter-century
is the development of the “laser beam.” The nature
of light is such that it scatters as it moves away from its
source, thereby lessening its intensity and effect. The laser
overcomes this limitation by concentrating its energy in a
straight line, so that it retains its potency even at great
distance from its point of origin; thus its utility (as a
source of light, heat, or other uses) can be exploited in
ways previously unimaginable.
We often hear the argument that a life that is faithful to
the precepts of the Torah is greatly “constricted”
and “confined.” Why limit myself in any way? Why
not give free rein to my thoughts, feelings and inclinations,
and let them lead me where they may? Why automatically exclude
certain pursuits and experiences from the possible paths my
life might take?
On the face of it, any code of behavior is a limiting factor,
something that detracts from the great variety of possibilities
that life has to offer. In truth, however, the very opposite
is the case. A life without parameters is a life that quickly
dissipates in the cosmic heterogeneity in which we exist,
draining it of all power and impact. As the example of the
laser beam demonstrates, it is precisely the “limitations”
imposed on a force that extend and amplify its potentials
and enable its optimal realization.
Based on an address delivered by the Rebbe on Chanukah,
5730 (1970)
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