R. Moshe Cordovero · Safed, 16th c.14 teachings
תומר דבורהTomer Devorah.
A Safed Kabbalist’s handbook for copying the divine attributes into daily life,
from bearing insult to walking in exile.
Thirteen Attributes of Mercy
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- Iמלך עלובThe Insulted KingEven while being wronged, He keeps the wrongdoer alive.
- IIנושא עוןFeeding the DestroyerHe feeds even the harm we made, waiting for us to undo it.
- IIIלא החזיק לעד אפוAnger Not Held ForeverEven a justified anger is set down before it hardens.
- IVישוב ירחמנוThe Higher OpeningThe one who returns climbs in through the narrow window above.
- Vותשליך במצלות יםCast into the DepthsWhat was cast down does not rise to the surface again.
The Crown
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- VIתחת דגל הענוהUnder Humility's BannerThe highest one always looks down, in order to give.
- VIIתחבשת משלשה סמיםA Poultice for PrideThree herbs for the proud heart, then a cup of love.
Wisdom and Understanding
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- VIIIשני פנים לחכמהThe Two Faces of WisdomFace upward to receive, face downward to give, by measure.
- IXבינה היא תשובהUnderstanding Is ReturnEvery bitterness has a sweet root it can climb back to.
Right, Left and Center
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- Xהמתחסד עם קונוKindness Toward One's MakerEvery kindness below is also a kindness done above.
- XIלצרך אשתוStrength SweetenedBind the fire; let it out only to build a home.
- XIIהמשפיל עצמו בדברי תורהTorah Without PrideLearning that bends low lets the light flow down.
Foundation and Kingdom
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- XIIIמחזיקים בה ותומכיהThe Pillars and the BowTwo pillars hold up the learning; the bow aims only true.
- XIVכלי גולה עשי לךVessels of ExileCarry little, walk far, and the exiled Presence walks with you.