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In our last piece, we explored how Torah study strengthens our faith in Hashem. Another way to connect with Hashem is through the study and appreciation of His creation and interaction with the world.
Nature
Yeshayahu HaNavi urges us to look up at the heavens and ponder the Creator behind them (Yesh. 40:26). While some may argue that the universe formed without divine intervention, the complexity of creation suggests otherwise.
Rebbe Akiva once challenged a heretic seeking proof of Hashem’s existence by comparing the world to a weaver’s shirt, a house, and a door. Just as these objects point to their creators, the world points to a higher power (BTâM II 5).
Rabbeinu Bachya (CâHL, Yichud 6) likens the world to a book, emphasizing that just as a novel cannot spontaneously emerge from ink on paper, the world cannot exist without a creator.
From macro to micro, the universe’s vastness and intricacy are awe-inspiring. Each creature, from the largest to the smallest, showcases intelligent design. Studying nature can deepen our faith by revealing the beauty of creation.
The Rambam adds that exploring nature’s complexities can evoke feelings of love and awe towards Hashem (YH”T 2:2). The grandeur of the cosmos inspires awe, while the intricacies of life forms evoke love.
Man
Humanities help us appreciate Hashem’s greatest creation: man. While the world and its creatures are impressive, humans stand out as reflections of Hashem’s image.
Created in the divine image (Ber. 1:27), humans possess unique qualities such as creativity, speech, and self-awareness. Our capacity for deep thought and introspection sets us apart from other creatures. Recognizing these traits reinforces our belief in Hashem and fosters awe and love for Him.
Life Experience
Hashem’s presence is not only evident in creation but also in the ongoing interactions within His world.
Unexplained coincidences, unexpected turns of events, and moments of inspiration serve as reminders of Hashem’s hand in our lives. Even when we don’t understand the reasons behind these occurrences, we can acknowledge them as divine interventions.
History
Hashem’s influence is particularly pronounced in history, where events unfold with purpose and meaning. While we may not grasp the full significance of events in real-time, hindsight often reveals a divine plan at work.
The Torah emphasizes the importance of studying Jewish history (Dev. 32:7-9) to recognize Hashem’s role in shaping our collective destiny. As Hashem’s chosen people, we are called to reflect on our past to better understand His ongoing presence in our lives.
Next week, we will delve deeper into the study of Jewish history and its profound impact on our relationship with Hashem.