14. Why is
there opposition from certain rabbis against the Kabbalah Centre?
There has never been a time, in all of human history,
when a positive and profound change in civilization, did not first
encounter enormous resistance and protest by those in the
establishment.
Tossing out obstacles and challenging all
forms of change and progress is an innate trait of
humanity.
It could be in the areas of science, politics, or
the social sciences, it doesn't really matter, any kind of
discovery, innovation or advancement of the human condition, is
always first met with criticism and defiance before eventually
taking hold.
Kabbalah is no exception. Controversy of this
nature has been a trademark of Kabbalah since the time of the First
Temple.
The great Kabbalists of history ~ men like R. Joseph
Caro, author of the compendium of Jewish Law, R. Chaim Luzzato,
whose works are well-read in religious schools worldwide ~ were
scorned and defamed by their own Rabbinical colleagues. Some, even
to the point of being ex-communicated.
Ironically, upon
leaving this world, these very same Kabbalists were held in the
highest regard, with all respect by their former peers. History now
regards these Kabbalists as giants, with great reverence and
authority.
Unfortunately, division and separation does cause
severe damage. Once again, the sole purpose of The Kabbalah Center
is to remove these negative and destructive barriers and to look for
ways to unite.
According to the Torah, negative or evil
speech about anyone else, under any circumstances, is considered to
be a horrendous and dangerous sin for speech has the power to arouse
both positive and negative forces. Karen Berg once said: "People
should be more concerned with what comes out of their mouths as
opposed to what goes into their mouths."
Instead of looking
for ways to cause further division, Kabbalah teaches us to look for
ways to unite and come together. Unity occurs through tolerance,
compassion, sensitivity and understanding. This is the only formula
that can end the disease of hatred. Unity does not mean foregoing
one's individuality or viewpoint. Opposites can still be united. Two
individuals with two contrasting perspectives can still be united
towards a common goal. In fact, Kabbalah teaches us that unity can
only occur through diversity. A successful business needs both a
marketing department and a financial department. If the two are
sensitive and respectful to each other's position, their unity
elevates the business to a much greater level. Life works the same
way.
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