Tanya, Part V; Kuntres Acharon 2:1

Hook

We gather today, on this quiet turning of the year, or perhaps on an unexpected anniversary, to honor the memory of a soul who has transitioned beyond our visible world. The air may feel still, carrying the echo of laughter, the warmth of a shared glance, or the quiet strength of presence. It is a moment when the veil between what was and what is feels thinner, a sacred space where remembrance blossoms not as a burden, but as a profound connection, a living legacy. We are here because a life touched ours, and its departure has left an indelible imprint. This time is an invitation to hold that imprint with gentleness, to trace its contours in the landscape of our hearts, and to find in the very act of remembering a source of enduring meaning. Whether the passage of time is measured in days, months, or years, the heart’s capacity for love and remembrance remains a constant, a gentle tide that washes over us, reminding us of the beauty and depth of the lives we have been privileged to share. This space is for you, and for the enduring spirit of the one you hold dear.

Text Snapshot

"For there can be no 'turning of face to face' except through mitzvot requiring action exclusively. The reason is that good deeds cause the supernal union... the first step must be elevation of mayin nukvin of nukva of the Minor Visage, and the mayin nukvin of nukva is the state of action. Good deeds are described as trimming and hacking off the thistles that attach themselves to the hinderpart, the state of deed, as written in Etz Chaim. This pruning is effected through elevating the element of good concealed in them that is enclothed in mitzvot of action, elevating it to its source, to the sanctity of Atzilut that has already been purified."

Kavvanah

This profound teaching from Tanya, specifically from Kuntres Acharon, Part V, offers a unique lens through which to approach our experience of grief and remembrance. It speaks of a “turning of face to face,” a concept that, when explored, illuminates the very essence of connection, both with the Divine and with those we have loved and lost. The text suggests that this profound union, this drawing closer, can only truly occur through “mitzvot requiring action exclusively.” This isn't to diminish the power of thought or speech, but rather to highlight the unique potency of embodied action in bridging the spiritual realms.

Consider the phrase “turning of face to face” ( panim b’fanim). In its most intimate sense, it speaks of recognition, of seeing and being seen, of a mutual acknowledgment that transcends mere observation. When we recall the departed, we are engaging in a form of this very union. We are turning our inner face towards their memory, seeking to understand, to connect, to feel their presence anew. Yet, the Tanya posits that this turning, this profound revelation and connection, is most fully realized through action.

The text further elaborates that the crucial element is the “elevation of mayin nukvin,” the feminine waters, which represents an "arousal from below." This means that our own initiative, our own active engagement, is what draws forth a spiritual response, a connection from the Divine. In the context of remembrance, this translates to our active participation in keeping the memory alive, not passively, but with intention and purpose. The "state of action" is where this elevation occurs. It is in the doing, the engaging, the tangible expressions of love and remembrance, that we can truly achieve that “supernal union.”

The imagery of "trimming and hacking off the thistles" is powerful. Grief can sometimes feel like a tangled thicket, obscuring the clear light of cherished memories. The mitzvot of action, as described here, act as a pruning, clearing away the obscuring elements and allowing the pure essence of the loved one’s spirit, and the good they embodied, to ascend to its source. It’s about actively engaging with the good that was, and by doing so, purifying and elevating it. This isn’t about forcing a spiritual experience, but about creating the conditions for it through our committed, intentional actions.

The text explains that the mayin nukvin of nukva (the feminine aspect, the recipient) is the "state of action." This suggests that our willingness to act, to embody our love and remembrance, is the very conduit through which we can draw down spiritual nourishment and achieve union. It’s a reciprocal relationship: our active engagement from below facilitates a response from above. When we engage in acts that honor the departed, we are not just performing rituals; we are actively participating in a cosmic process of elevation and connection.

The emphasis on mitzvot requiring action, as opposed to mere thought or speech, is significant. While our thoughts and spoken words are precious, the text suggests that actions have a unique power to pierce through the layers of the material world and connect us to higher spiritual realities. This is because actions engage our entire being – our body, our will, our energy. They are the most tangible expression of our inner state. When we translate our love and remembrance into concrete actions, we are creating a physical manifestation of our spiritual longing, a tangible offering that can facilitate that desired "turning of face to face."

Therefore, as we approach this ritual of remembrance, our kavvanah, our intention, is to embrace the power of active engagement. We intend to move beyond passive reflection and to actively participate in the elevation of memory. We aim to embody our love and respect for the departed through conscious, intentional actions. We seek to prune away any entanglements that obscure the pure essence of their legacy, and through our deeds, to facilitate a profound connection, a “turning of face to face” with their memory and with the Divine presence that encompasses all. We understand that this active engagement is not a burden, but an opportunity, a sacred pathway to deeper meaning and enduring connection. We open ourselves to the transformative power of doing, of acting, of embodying our love.

Practice

This practice is designed to be a gentle, yet powerful, way to engage with the concept of action in remembrance, drawing from the wisdom of Tanya. It is a micro-practice, intentionally contained within our 15-minute timeframe, but with the potential for deep resonance. We will focus on a single, tangible action, choosing from a few options to best suit your personal inclination and the specific memory you wish to honor. The core idea is to translate your internal feelings of love, longing, and appreciation into a concrete deed, thereby engaging in that “elevation of mayin nukvin” that the Tanya describes.

Option 1: The Candle of Active Witness

• Action: Lighting a memorial candle.
• Explanation: While lighting a candle is often a silent act, we will imbue it with active intention. As you light the flame, visualize it not just as a beacon of light, but as a symbol of your active commitment to keeping the memory of your loved one alive. Think of the flame as a tiny spark of the Divine, fueled by your own active will. The act of striking the match, of bringing the flame into being, is a deed. The steady burn of the candle is your sustained intention.
• Practice Steps:
  1. Prepare: Find a suitable memorial candle. If you don’t have one, a regular candle will suffice. Place it in a safe location where it can burn undisturbed.
  2. Choose a Name: Silently, or softly aloud, speak the full name of the person you are remembering. This is the first act of acknowledgment.
  3. The Act of Lighting: Hold the match or lighter. As you bring the flame to the wick, set your intention: "I offer this light, this active flame, as a testament to the enduring light of [Name]. My action here is a bridge, a connection, an elevation of their memory."
  4. Witnessing the Flame: Watch the flame for a few moments. As you gaze into it, consider the “thistles” that might obscure the clarity of your memories – perhaps sadness, regret, or the sheer passage of time. Visualize the steady flame as your active effort to “trim and hack off” these obscuring elements, allowing the pure essence of their being to shine through. Each flicker is a reminder of the dynamic nature of memory, fueled by your active presence.
  5. A Silent Blessing or Word: You might offer a brief, spoken blessing, or simply sit in silent communion with the flame and the memory. The act of speaking, even softly, is a deed, a vocalization of your internal state.

Option 2: The Seed of Legacy Tzedakah

• Action: Performing a small act of tzedakah (charity or justice) in their name.
• Explanation: This practice directly engages with the concept of mitzvot requiring action. Tzedakah is a fundamental act of doing good in the world. By directing this action towards a cause or need that resonates with the values or spirit of the person you remember, you are actively transforming your remembrance into a force for good, thus elevating their legacy.
• Practice Steps:
  1. Choose a Cause: Think of a cause that was important to your loved one, or a value they embodied. This could be supporting a local community center, donating to an animal shelter, contributing to an educational fund, or helping someone in need.
  2. The Act of Giving: This can be a monetary donation, a donation of goods, or even an act of service. For this practice, we'll focus on a tangible, immediate act. If you have a small amount of money set aside, consider taking it out.
  3. Intention and Blessing: Hold the money or the item you plan to give. Say aloud: "In honor of [Name], whose spirit of [mention a quality, e.g., kindness, generosity, learning] I deeply cherish, I perform this act of tzedakah. This action is my offering, my way of continuing their goodness in the world, and elevating their memory through deed."
  4. The Physical Transfer: If possible, make the physical act of giving. This could be dropping coins into a donation box, placing an item in a collection bin, or sending a digital donation. The physical transfer is the crucial element of embodied action. If immediate giving isn't feasible, identify the specific action you will take immediately after this ritual, and commit to it with the same intention. The commitment itself is a powerful act of will.
  5. Reflect on the Impact: Briefly consider how this small act of tzedakah ripples outward. You are not just giving; you are actively participating in the ongoing tapestry of good in the world, a tapestry woven, in part, by the threads of the life you remember.

Option 3: The Story of Embodied Truth

• Action: Sharing a specific, truthful story about the departed, focusing on a moment of their action or their impact.
• Explanation: The Tanya notes that even the movement of lips in prayer is considered a deed. Sharing a story is an act of vocalization, of bringing memory into the present through narrative. By focusing on a story that highlights their actions or the tangible impact they had, you are embodying their legacy in a spoken form.
• Practice Steps:
  1. Recall a Specific Moment: Think of a particular story that illustrates a key aspect of your loved one's character, their impact, or a specific deed they performed. Aim for a story that is concrete and detailed, rather than general.
  2. Prepare to Speak: Take a few deep breaths. Identify the core message or feeling you want to convey through this story.
  3. The Act of Narration: Begin to tell the story, either aloud to yourself, to a trusted confidant (if you have one present), or even to a symbolic listener (like a photograph or a cherished object). As you speak, focus on the actions and details within the story. For example, instead of saying "They were kind," you might recount a time they acted with kindness, describing their actions.
  4. Emphasize the Deed: As you narrate, consciously highlight the "doing" within the story. For instance, "They reached out," "They built," "They offered," "They listened intently." These verbs of action are the substance of the deed.
  5. The Closing Resonance: Conclude the story with a reflection on its meaning or impact, connecting it back to the person's legacy. "Through this story, I see their [quality] made manifest in action. This act of sharing is my way of keeping that truth alive."

Regardless of the option you choose:

• Time Allocation: Dedicate approximately 10-12 minutes to the chosen practice. Allow yourself to be fully present in the action.
• Gentle Pace: Move at a pace that feels natural and unhurried. The intention is not to rush, but to savor the moment of active remembrance.
• No Right or Wrong: There is no "perfect" way to do this. The sincerity of your intention and your willingness to engage in an act of remembrance are what matter most.
• Integration: After completing your chosen practice, take a few moments to simply sit with the feeling it has evoked. Notice any sensations, thoughts, or emotions that arise. This is part of the integration of the practice into your being.

This practice is an opportunity to experience firsthand how action can be a profound conduit for connection and remembrance. It is your active participation in the ongoing story of love and legacy.

Community

The practice of remembrance, while deeply personal, is also a profound communal experience. The Tanya's emphasis on the power of action can guide us in how we extend our remembrance beyond ourselves and invite others into this sacred space. When we engage in acts that honor those we miss, we are not only elevating their memory but also creating opportunities for shared connection and support.

Option 1: Shared Act of Witness

• Action: If you are with others, or if you wish to invite connection, suggest a brief, communal lighting of candles.
• How to Include Others:
  1. Invitation: You can say something like: "As we remember [Name] today, I'd like to invite us to share in a moment of active remembrance. We will each light a candle, not just as a passive symbol, but as our active commitment to keeping their light alive. As you light your candle, think of one specific action they took that you admired, or one way you can actively embody their spirit moving forward."
  2. Shared Intent: If you are leading, you can offer a brief, unifying intention before the lighting: "May this collective act of lighting illuminate our shared memories and strengthen our bonds of love and support for one another as we carry forward the legacy of [Name]."
  3. Brief Sharing (Optional): After the candles are lit and have burned for a few moments, you might invite those present to share one word that comes to mind when they think of the person being remembered, or one way they are inspired to act in their memory. This keeps the focus on active remembrance and shared experience.

Option 2: The Ripple of Tzedakah

• Action: Initiate or participate in a collective tzedakah initiative in memory of the departed.
• How to Include Others:
  1. Propose a Project: If you are part of a family or a close-knit group, you might suggest a specific tzedakah project. For example: "In memory of [Name], who deeply valued [mention a value], I’d like to propose that we collectively contribute to [specific charity/cause] for the next month. Our combined actions, even if small individually, will create a significant impact, a tangible expression of our love and a continuation of their goodness."
  2. Create a Shared Platform: If you have a digital group or email list, you could create a thread or a shared document where people can share the small acts of tzedakah they are performing in memory of the departed. This creates a sense of communal action and inspiration. Seeing others’ actions can be a powerful motivator and a comfort.
  3. Organized Volunteer Effort: If feasible, organize a small group volunteer event in their name – helping at a soup kitchen, cleaning up a park, or visiting residents in a care home. The shared physical labor and purpose can be deeply connecting.

Option 3: The Circle of Stories

• Action: Create a dedicated space, either in person or virtually, for sharing stories.
• How to Include Others:
  1. Storytelling Circle: Invite friends and family to a gathering (in person or via video call) with the specific intention of sharing a story about the person you are remembering. Frame it as an active act of preservation: "Today, we are not just reminiscing; we are actively weaving the tapestry of [Name]'s life through the stories we share. Each story is an act of bringing their memory to life, a deed that keeps their spirit vibrant."
  2. Digital Memory Book: Create a shared online document or platform where people can contribute written stories, photos, or even short video clips. Encourage them to focus on specific moments of action or impact. This creates a lasting legacy that others can access and contribute to over time.
  3. Prompted Sharing: Provide a gentle prompt to guide the storytelling, focusing on action. For example: "Share a time when [Name] took action to help someone," or "Describe a moment when you witnessed their dedication to a cause."

Key Considerations for Community Engagement:

• Respect Individual Timelines: Be mindful that grief is not linear. Not everyone will be ready or able to participate in the same way or at the same time. Offer choices and respect boundaries.
• Focus on the "Doing": Reinforce the idea that these communal practices are about active engagement. It's not just about remembering, but about doing something meaningful because we remember.
• Shared Purpose: Emphasize that by acting together, you are creating a collective impact, a unified force of love and remembrance that honors the departed and supports those who remain. This shared purpose can be a profound source of comfort and strength.

By incorporating community into our active remembrance, we transform individual acts of memory into a shared legacy, a testament to the enduring power of connection.

Takeaway

The wisdom from Tanya offers a profound insight for our journey of grief and remembrance: that true connection, that "turning of face to face," is most powerfully realized through active engagement. Our memories, our love, our longing – these are potent forces, and when we translate them into tangible actions, we participate in a spiritual elevation. Whether through the steady flame of a candle, the ripple of tzedakah, the spoken truth of a story, or shared acts of community, our deeds become the conduits through which the spirit of our loved ones, and the Divine presence, can be more fully encountered. May we find solace and strength in the knowing that by actively honoring their legacy, we are not only keeping their memory alive, but actively participating in the ongoing creation of meaning and goodness in the world. This is the enduring power of action in remembrance.