Counting the Omer

Counting Up To Shavout!!

With the mitzvah of counting the 49 days, known as Sefirat Ha'Omer, the Torah invites us on a journey into the human psyche, into the soul. There are seven basic emotions that make up the spectrum of human experience. At the root of all forms of enslavement, is a distortion of these emotions. Each of the seven weeks between Passover and Shavuot is dedicated to examining and refining one of them.

The seven emotional attributes are:
Chesed ― Loving-kindness
Gevurah ― Justice and discipline
Tiferet ― Harmony, compassion
Netzach ― Endurance
Hod ― Humility
Yesod ― Bonding
Malchut ― Sovereignty, leadership

The seven weeks, which represent these emotional attributes, further divide into seven days making up the 49 days of the counting. Since a fully functional emotion is multidimensional, it includes within itself a blend of all seven attributes. Thus, the counting of the first week, which begins on the second night of Pesach, as well as consisting of the actual counting ("Today is day one of the Omer...") would consist of the following structure with suggested meditations:

Upon conclusion of the 49 days we arrive at the 50th day ― Mattan Torah. After we have achieved all we can accomplish through our own initiative, traversing and refining every emotional corner of our psyche, we then receive a gift ('mattan' in Hebrew) from above. We receive that which we could not achieve with our own limited faculties. We receive the gift of true freedom ― the ability to transcend our human limitations and touch the divine.
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WEEK 1 ― CHESED: LOVING-KINDNESS
Day 1 ― Chesed of Chesed: Loving-kindness in Loving-kindness
1 Corinthians 5: 6-8
Love is the single most powerful and necessary component in life. It is both giving and receiving. Love allows us to reach above and beyond ourselves, to experience another person and to allow that person to experience us. It is the tool by which we learn to experience the highest reality ― The Most High. Examine the love aspect of your love.

Ask yourself: What is my capacity to love another person? Do I have problems with giving? Am I stingy or selfish? Is it difficult for me to let someone else into my life? Am I afraid of my vulnerability, of opening up and getting hurt?
Exercise for the day: Find a new way to express your love to a dear one.

א ALEPH

1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the Lord!
2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart!
3 They also do no iniquity; They walk in His ways.
4 You have commanded us To keep Your precepts diligently
5 Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes!
6 Then I would not be ashamed, When I look into all Your commandments.
7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
8 I will keep Your statutes; Oh, do not forsake me utterly!

Day 2 ― Gevurah of Chesed: Discipline in Loving-kindness

Romans 12:1-2

Healthy love must always include an element of discipline and discernment; a degree of distance and respect for another's boundaries; an assessment of another's capacity to contain your love. Love must be tempered and directed properly. Ask a parent who, in the name of love, has spoiled a child; or someone who suffocates a spouse with love and doesn't allow them any personal space.

Exercise for the day: Help someone on their terms not on yours. Apply yourself to their specific needs even if it takes effort.

ב BETH

9 How can a young man cleanse his way?

By taking heed according to Your word.

10 With my whole heart I have sought You;

Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!

11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,

That I might not sin against You.

12 Blessed are You, O Lord!

Teach me Your statutes.

13 With my lips I have declared

All the judgments of Your mouth.

14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,

As much as in all riches.

Day 3 ― Tiferet of Chesed: Compassion, Harmony in Loving-kindness

 Ephesians 4:20-24

Harmony in love is one that blends both the chesed and gevurah aspects of love. Harmonized love includes empathy and compassion. Love is often given with the expectation of receiving love in return. Compassionate love is given freely; expects nothing in return ― even when the other doesn't deserve love. Tiferet is giving also to those who have hurt you.

Exercise for the day: Offer a helping hand to a stranger.

ג GIMEL

17 Deal bountifully with Your servant,

That I may live and keep Your word.

18 Open my eyes, that I may see

Wondrous things from Your law.

19 I am a stranger in the earth;

Do not hide Your commandments from me.

20 My soul breaks with longing

For Your judgments at all times.

21 You rebuke the proud—the cursed,

Who stray from Your commandments.

22 Remove from me reproach and contempt,

For I have kept Your testimonies.

23 Princes also sit and speak against me,

But Your servant meditates on Your statutes.

24 Your testimonies also are my delight

And my counselors.

Day 4 ― Netzach of Chesed: Endurance in Loving-kindness

Ephesians 4:29-32

Is my love enduring? Does it withstand challenges and setbacks? Do I give and withhold love according to my moods or is it constant regardless of the ups and downs of life?

Exercise for the day: Reassure a loved one of the constancy of your love.

ד DALETH

25 My soul clings to the dust;

Revive me according to Your word.

26 I have declared my ways, and You answered me;

Teach me Your statutes.

27 Make me understand the way of Your precepts;

So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works.

28 My soul melts from heaviness;

Strengthen me according to Your word.

29 Remove from me the way of lying,

And grant me Your law graciously.

30 I have chosen the way of truth;

Your judgments I have laid before me.

31 I cling to Your testimonies;

O Lord, do not put me to shame!

32 I will run the course of Your commandments,

For You shall enlarge my heart.

Day 5 ― Hod of Chesed: Humility in Loving-kindness

 Ephesians 5: 1-2

You can often get locked in love and be unable to forgive your beloved or to bend or compromise your position. Hod introduces the aspect of humility in love; the ability to rise above yourself and forgive or give in to the one you love just for the sake of love even if you're convinced that you're right. Arrogant love is not love.

Exercise for the day: Swallow your pride and reconcile with a loved one with whom you have quarreled.

ה HE

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,

And I shall keep it to the end.

34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;

Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35 Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,

For I delight in it.

36 Incline my heart to Your testimonies,

And not to covetousness.

37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,

And revive me in Your way.

38 Establish Your word to Your servant,

Who is devoted to fearing You.

39 Turn away my reproach which I dread,

For Your judgments are good.

40 Behold, I long for Your precepts;

Revive me in Your righteousness.

Day 6 ― Yesod of Chesed: Bonding in Loving-kindness

Ephesians 5:15-20

For love to be eternal it requires bonding. A sense of togetherness which actualizes the love in a joint effort. An intimate connection, kinship and attachment, benefiting both parties. This bonding bears fruit; the fruit born out of a healthy union.

Exercise for the day: Start building something constructive together with a loved one.

ו WAW

41 Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—

Your salvation according to Your word.

42 So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me,

For I trust in Your word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,

For I have hoped in Your ordinances.

44 So shall I keep Your law continually,

Forever and ever.

45 And I will walk at liberty,

For I seek Your precepts.

46 I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings,

And will not be ashamed.

47 And I will delight myself in Your commandments,

Which I love.

48 My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments,

Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes.

Day 7 ― Malchut of Chesed: Nobility in Loving-kindness

Mature love comes with ― and brings ― personal dignity. An intimate feeling of nobility and regality. Knowing your special place and contribution in this world. Any love that is debilitating and breaks the human spirit is no love at all. For love to be complete it must have the dimension of personal sovereignty.

Exercise for the day: Highlight an aspect of your love that has bolstered your spirit and enriched your life...and celebrate.

ז ZAYIN

49 Remember the word to Your servant,

Upon which You have caused me to hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction,

For Your word has given me life.

51 The proud have me in great derision,

Yet I do not turn aside from Your law.

52 I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord,

And have comforted myself.

53 Indignation has taken hold of me

Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law.

54 Your statutes have been my songs

In the house of my pilgrimage.

55 I remember Your name in the night, O Lord,

And I keep Your law.

56 This has become mine,

Because I kept Your precepts.

WEEK 2 ― GEVURAH: JUSTICE, DISCIPLINE, RESTRAINT, AWE

After the miraculous Exodus from Egypt, the Hebrew people spent 49 days preparing for the most awesome experience in human history ― the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Just as the Hebrew peoples' redemption from Egypt teaches us how to achieve inner freedom in our lives; so too, this 49-day period, called 'Sefirat Ha-Omer' the Counting of the Omer, is a time of intense character refinement and elevation.

During this time, the aspect of the human psyche that most requires refinement is the area of the emotions. The spectrum of human experience consists of seven emotional attributes, or sefirot. This week we continue Sefirat Ha'Omer, utilizing the seven dimensions of the seven emotional attributes. The first week after Pesach was dedicated to examining the aspect of Chesed ― Loving-kindness.

Day 8 ― Chesed of Gevurah: Loving-kindness in Discipline

Galatians 5:16-18  

The underlying intention and motive in discipline is love. Why do we measure our behavior, why do we establish standards and expect people to live up to them ― only because of love. Chesed of gevurah is the love in discipline; it is the recognition that your personal discipline and the discipline you expect of others is only an expression of love. It is the understanding that we have no right to judge others; we have a right only to love them and that includes wanting them to be their best.

Ask yourself: when I judge and criticize another is it in any way tinged with any of my own contempt and irritation? Is there any hidden satisfaction in his failure? Or is it only out of love for the other?

Exercise for the day: Before you criticize someone today, think twice: Is it out of concern and love?

ח HETH

57 You are my portion, O Lord;

I have said that I would keep Your words.

58 I entreated Your favor with my whole heart;

Be merciful to me according to Your word.

59 I thought about my ways,

And turned my feet to Your testimonies.

60 I made haste, and did not delay

To keep Your commandments.

61 The cords of the wicked have bound me,

But I have not forgotten Your law.

62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You,

Because of Your righteous judgments.

63 I am a companion of all who fear You,

And of those who keep Your precepts.

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of Your mercy;

Teach me Your statutes.

Day 9 ― Gevurah of Gevurah: Discipline in Discipline

Galatians 5:22-26  

Examine the discipline factor of discipline: Is my discipline reasonably restrained or is it excessive? Do I have enough discipline in my life and in my interactions? Am I organized? Is my time used efficiently? Why do I have problems with discipline and what can I do to enhance it? Do I take time each day for personal accounting of my schedule and accomplishments?

Exercise for the day: Make a detailed plan for spending your day and at the end of the day see if you've lived up to it.

ט TETH

65 You have dealt well with Your servant,

O Lord, according to Your word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,

For I believe Your commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,

But now I keep Your word.

68 You are good, and do good;

Teach me Your statutes.

69 The proud have forged a lie against me,

But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart.

70 Their heart is as fat as grease,

But I delight in Your law.

71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted,

That I may learn Your statutes.

72 The law of Your mouth is better to me

Than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

Day 10 ― Tiferet of Gevurah: Compassion in Discipline
1 John 2:15-17
Underlying and driving discipline must not only be love, but also compassion. Compassion is unconditional love. It is love just for the sake of love, not considering the others position. Tiferet is a result of total selflessness in the eyes of The Most High. You love for no reason; you love because you are a reflection of The Most High. Does my discipline have this element of compassion?

Exercise for the day: Be compassionate to someone you have reproached.

י YOD

73 Your hands have made me and fashioned me;
Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.
74 Those who fear You will be glad when they see me,
Because I have hoped in Your word.
75 I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right,
And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.
76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,
According to Your word to Your servant.
77 Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;
For Your law is my delight.
78 Let the proud be ashamed,
For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood;
But I will meditate on Your precepts.
79 Let those who fear You turn to me,
Those who know Your testimonies.
80 Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes,
That I may not be ashamed.

Day 11 ― Netzach of Gevurah: Endurance in Discipline

James 3:1-6  

Effective discipline must be enduring and tenacious. Is my discipline consistent or only when forced? Do I follow through with discipline? Am I perceived as a weak disciplinarian?

Exercise for the day: Extend the plan you made on day two for a longer period of time listing short-term and long-term goals. Review and update it each day, and see how consistent you are and if you follow through.

כ KAPH

81 My soul faints for Your salvation,

But I hope in Your word.

82 My eyes fail from searching Your word,

Saying, “When will You comfort me?”

83 For I have become like a wineskin in smoke,

Yet I do not forget Your statutes.

84 How many are the days of Your servant?

When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me?

85 The proud have dug pits for me,

Which is not according to Your law.

86 All Your commandments are faithful;

They persecute me wrongfully; Help me!

87 They almost made an end of me on earth,

But I did not forsake Your precepts.

88 Revive me according to Your lovingkindness,

So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

Day 12 ― Hod of Gevurah: Humility in Discipline

James 3:8-12  

The results of discipline and might without humility are obvious. The greatest catastrophes have occurred as a result of people sitting in arrogant judgment of others. Am I arrogant in the name of justice (what I consider just)? Do I ever think that I sit on a higher pedestal and bestow judgment on my subjects below? What about my children? Students?

Exercise for the day: Before judging anyone, insure that you are doing so selflessly with no personal bias.

ל LAMED

89 Forever, O Lord,

Your word is settled in heaven.

90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;

You established the earth, and it abides.

91 They continue this day according to Your ordinances,

For all are Your servants.

92 Unless Your law had been my delight,

I would then have perished in my affliction.

93 I will never forget Your precepts,

For by them You have given me life.

94 I am Yours, save me;

For I have sought Your precepts.

95 The wicked wait for me to destroy me,

But I will consider Your testimonies.

96 I have seen the consummation of all perfection,

But Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

Day 13 ― Yesod of Gevurah: Bonding in Discipline

James 3:13-18  

For discipline to be effective it must be coupled with commitment and bonding. Both in disciplining yourself and others there has to be a sense that the discipline is important for developing a stronger bond. Not that I discipline you, but that we are doing it together for our mutual benefit.

Exercise for the day: Demonstrate to your child or student how discipline is an expression of intensifying your bond and commitment to each other.

מ MEM

97 Oh, how I love Your law!

It is my meditation all the day.

98 You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies;

For they are ever with me.

99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,

For Your testimonies are my meditation.

100 I understand more than the ancients,

Because I keep Your precepts.

101 I have restrained my feet from every evil way,

That I may keep Your word.

102 I have not departed from Your judgments,

For You Yourself have taught me.

103 How sweet are Your words to my taste,

Sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104 Through Your precepts I get understanding;

Therefore I hate every false way.

Day 14 ― Malchut of Gevurah: Nobility of Discipline

Discipline, like love, must enhance personal dignity. Discipline that breaks a person will
backfire. Healthy discipline should bolster self-esteem and help elicit the best in a
person; cultivating his sovereignty. Does my discipline cripple the human spirit; does it
weaken or strengthen me and others?

Exercise for the day: When disciplining your child or student, foster his self-respect

נ NUN

105 Your word is a lamp to my feet

And a light to my path.

106 I have sworn and confirmed

That I will keep Your righteous judgments.

107 I am afflicted very much;

Revive me, O Lord, according to Your word.

108 Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord,

And teach me Your judgments.

109 My life is continually in my hand,

Yet I do not forget Your law.

110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,

Yet I have not strayed from Your precepts.

111 Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever,

For they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112 I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes

Forever, to the very end.

WEEK 3 ― TIFERET ― HARMONY, COMPASSION

During the third week of Counting the Omer, we examine the emotional

attribute of Tiferet or compassion. Tiferet blends and harmonizes the free

outpouring love of Chesed with the discipline of Gevurah. Tiferet possesses

this power by introducing a third dimension ― the dimension of truth, which

is neither love nor discipline and therefore can integrate the two.

Truth is accessed through selflessness: rising above your ego and your

predispositions, enabling you to realize truth. Truth gives you a clear and

objective picture of yours and others' needs. This quality gives Tiferet its

name, which means beauty: it blends the differing colors of love and

discipline, and this harmony makes it beautiful.

Day 15 ― Chesed of Tiferet: Loving-kindness in Compassion
1 Peter 3:15

Examine the love aspect of compassion. Ask yourself: Is my compassion

tender and loving or does it come across as pity? Is my sympathy

condescending and patronizing? Even if my intention is otherwise, do others

perceive it as such? Does my compassion overflow with love and warmth;

is it expressed with enthusiasm, or is it static and lifeless?

Exercise for the day: When helping someone extend yourself in the fullest

way; offer a smile or a loving gesture.

ס SAMEK

113 I hate the double-minded,

But I love Your law.

114 You are my hiding place and my shield;

I hope in Your word.

115 Depart from me, you evildoers,

For I will keep the commandments of my God!

116 Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live;

And do not let me be ashamed of my hope.

117 Hold me up, and I shall be safe,

And I shall observe Your statutes continually.

118 You reject all those who stray from Your statutes,

For their deceit is falsehood.

119 You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross;

Therefore I love Your testimonies.

120 My flesh trembles for fear of You,

And I am afraid of Your judgments.

Day 16 ― Gevurah of Tiferet: Discipline in Compassion

Titus 2: 1-10

For compassion to be effective and healthy it needs to be

disciplined and focused. It requires discretion both to whom

you express compassion, and in the measure of the compassion

itself. It is recognizing when compassion should be expressed

and when it should be withheld or limited. Discipline in compassion

is knowing that being truly compassionate sometimes requires

withholding compassion. Because compassion is not an expression

of the bestower's needs but a response to the recipient's needs.

Exercise for the day: Express your compassion in a focused and

constructive manner by addressing someone's specific needs.

ע AYIN

121 I have done justice and righteousness;

Do not leave me to my oppressors.

122 Be surety for Your servant for good;

Do not let the proud oppress me.

123 My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation

And Your righteous word.

124 Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy,

And teach me Your statutes.

125 I am Your servant;Give me understanding,

That I may know Your testimonies.

126 It is time for You to act, O Lord,

For they have regarded Your law as void.

127 Therefore I love Your commandments

More than gold, yes, than fine gold!

128 Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things

I consider to be right;I hate every false way.

Day 17 ― Tiferet of Tiferet: Compassion in Compassion

1 Peter 5: 5-7

True compassion is limitless. It is not an extension of your needs and

defined by your limited perspective. Compassion for another is achieved

by having a selfless attitude, rising above yourself and placing yourself in

the other person's situation and experience. Am I prepared and able to

do that? If not, why? Do I express and actualize the compassion and

empathy in my heart? What blocks me from expressing it? Is my

compassion compassionate or self-serving? Is it compassion that comes

out of guilt rather than genuine empathy? How does that affect and

distort my compassion? Test yourself by seeing if you express compassion

even when you don't feel guilty.

Exercise for the day: Express your compassion in a new way that goes

beyond your previous limitations: express it towards someone to whom

you have been callous.

פ PE

129 Your testimonies are wonderful;

Therefore my soul keeps them.

130 The entrance of Your words gives light;

It gives understanding to the simple.

131 I opened my mouth and panted,

For I longed for Your commandments.

132 Look upon me and be merciful to me,

As Your custom is toward those who love Your name.

133 Direct my steps by Your word,

And let no iniquity have dominion over me.

134 Redeem me from the oppression of man,

That I may keep Your precepts.

135 Make Your face shine upon Your servant,

And teach me Your statutes.

136 Rivers of water run down from my eyes,

Because men do not keep Your law.

Day 18 ― Netzach of Tiferet: Endurance in Compassion

1 Timothy 5:1-2

Is my compassion enduring and consistent? Is it reliable or whimsical? Does it
prevail among other forces in my life? Do I have the capacity to be compassionate
even when I'm busy with other activities or only when it's comfortable for me? Am I
ready to stand up and fight for another?

Exercise for the day: In the middle of your busy day take a moment and call someone
who needs a compassionate word. Defend someone who is in need of sympathy even
if it's not a popular position.

צ TSADDE

137 Righteous are You, O Lord,

And upright are Your judgments.

138 Your testimonies, which You have commanded,

Are righteous and very faithful.

139 My zeal has consumed me,

Because my enemies have forgotten Your words.

140 Your word is very pure;

Therefore Your servant loves it.

141 I am small and despised,

Yet I do not forget Your precepts.

142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,

And Your law is truth.

143 Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,

Yet Your commandments are my delights.

144 The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting;

Give me understanding, and I shall live.

Day 19 ― Hod of Tiferet: Humility in Compassion

Romans 13: 1-5

If compassion is not to be condescending, it must include humility. Hod is

recognizing that my ability to be compassionate and giving does not make

me better than the recipient; it is the acknowledgment and appreciation that

by creating one who needs compassion The Most High gave me the gift of

being able to bestow compassion. Thus there is no place for haughtiness

in compassion.

Do I feel superior because I am compassionate? Do I look down at those

that need my compassion? Am I humble and thankful to The Most High for

giving me the ability to have compassion for others?

Exercise for the day: Express compassion in an anonymous fashion, not

taking any personal credit.

ק QOPH

145 I cry out with my whole heart;

Hear me, O Lord!

I will keep Your statutes.

146 I cry out to You;

Save me, and I will keep Your testimonies.

147 I rise before the dawning of the morning,

And cry for help;

I hope in Your word.

148 My eyes are awake through the night watches,

That I may meditate on Your word.

149 Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness;

O Lord, revive me according to Your justice.

150 They draw near who follow after wickedness;

They are far from Your law.

151 You are near, O Lord,

And all Your commandments are truth.

152 Concerning Your testimonies,

I have known of old that You have founded them forever.

Day 20 ― Yesod of Tiferet: Bonding in Compassion

Romans 13: 6-7; Hebrews 13:17

For compassion to be fully realized, it needs bonding. It requires creating

a channel between giver and receiver; a mutuality that extends beyond the

moment of need. A bond that continues to live on. That is the most

gratifying result of true compassion. Do you bond with the one you have

compassion for, or do you remain apart? Does your interaction achieve

anything beyond a single act of sympathy?

Exercise for the day: Ensure that something eternal is built as a result of

your compassion.

ר RESH

153 Consider my affliction and deliver me,

For I do not forget Your law.

154 Plead my cause and redeem me;

Revive me according to Your word.

155 Salvation is far from the wicked,

For they do not seek Your statutes.

156 Great are Your tender mercies, O Lord;

Revive me according to Your judgments.

157 Many are my persecutors and my enemies,

Yet I do not turn from Your testimonies.

158 I see the treacherous, and am disgusted,

Because they do not keep Your word.

159 Consider how I love Your precepts;

Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness.

160 The entirety of Your word is truth,

And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.

Day 21 ― Malchut of Tiferet: Nobility in Compassion

Examine the dignity of your compassion. For compassion to be complete

(and enhance the other six aspects of compassion) it must recognize and

appreciate individual sovereignty. It should boost self-esteem and cultivate

human dignity. Both your own dignity and the dignity of the one benefiting from

your compassion.

Is my compassion expressed in a dignified manner? Does it elicit dignity in

others? Do I recognize the fact that when I experience compassion as dignified

it will reflect reciprocally in the one who receives compassion?

Exercise for the day: Rather than just giving charity, help the needy help

themselves in a fashion that strengthens their dignity.

ש SHIN

161 Princes persecute me without a cause,

But my heart stands in awe of Your word.

162 I rejoice at Your word

As one who finds great treasure.

163 I hate and abhor lying,

But I love Your law.

164 Seven times a day I praise You,

Because of Your righteous judgments.

165 Great peace have those who love Your law,

And nothing causes them to stumble.

166 Lord, I hope for Your salvation,

And I do Your commandments.

167 My soul keeps Your testimonies,

And I love them exceedingly.

168 I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,

For all my ways are before You.

WEEK 4 ― NETZACH ― ENDURANCE

During the fourth week of counting the Omer, we examine and refine the

emotional attribute of endurance known as Netzach. Netzach means endurance,

fortitude and ambition and is a combination of determination and tenacity. It is a

balance of patience, persistence and guts. Endurance is also being reliable and

accountable, which establishes security and commitment.

Without endurance, any good endeavor or intention has no chance of success.

Endurance means to be alive, to be driven by what counts. It is the readiness to

fight for what you believe, to go all the way. This, of course, requires that endurance

be closely examined to ensure that it is used in a healthy and productive manner.

Day 22 ― Chesed of Netzach: Loving-kindness in Endurance

James 1:12-15

For anything to endure it needs to be loved. A neutral or indifferent attitude will

reflect in a marginal commitment. If you have difficulty making commitments,

examine how much you love and enjoy the object that requires your commitment.

Do I love my work? My family? My choices? For endurance to be effective it needs

to be caring and loving. Does my endurance cause me to be, or seem to be,

inflexible? Does my drive and determination cause me to be controlling? Am I too

demanding? Do others (my employees, friends, children) cooperate with me out of

the sheer force of my will and drive, or out of love?

Exercise for the day: When fighting for something you believe in, pause a moment

to ensure that it is accomplished in a loving manner.

ת TAU

169 Let my cry come before You, O Lord;

Give me understanding according to Your word.

170 Let my supplication come before You;

Deliver me according to Your word.

171 My lips shall utter praise,

For You teach me Your statutes.

172 My tongue shall speak of Your word,

For all Your commandments are righteousness.

173 Let Your hand become my help,

For I have chosen Your precepts.

174 I long for Your salvation, O Lord,

And Your law is my delight.

175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise You;

And let Your judgments help me.

176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep;

Seek Your servant,For I do not forget Your commandments.

Day 23 ― Gevurah of Netzach: Discipline in Endurance

1 John 3: 4-9

Examine the discipline of your endurance. Endurance must be directed toward

productive goals and expressed in a constructive manner. Is my endurance and

determination focused to help cultivate good habits and break bad ones? Or is it the

other way around? Does my endurance come from strength or weakness? Does it

come out of deep conviction or out of defensiveness? Do I use my endurance against

itself by being tenacious in my lack of determination?

Exercise for the day: Break one bad habit today.

א ALEPH

1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way,

Who walk in the law of the Lord!

2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,

Who seek Him with the whole heart!

3 They also do no iniquity;

They walk in His ways.

4 You have commanded us

To keep Your precepts diligently.

5 Oh, that my ways were directed

To keep Your statutes!

6 Then I would not be ashamed,

When I look into all Your commandments.

7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart,

When I learn Your righteous judgments.

8 I will keep Your statutes;

Oh, do not forsake me utterly!

Day 24 ― Tiferet of Netzach: Compassion in Endurance

John 8:31-32

Healthy endurance, directed to develop good qualities and modifying bad ones, will

always be compassionate. The compassion of endurance reflects a most beautiful

quality of endurance: an enduring commitment to help another grow. Endurance without

compassion is misguided and selfish. Endurance needs to be not just loving to those who

deserve love, but also compassionate to the less fortunate. Does my determination

compromise my compassion for others? Am I able to rise above my ego and empathize

with my competitors? Am I gracious in victory?

Exercise for the day: Be patient and listen to someone who usually makes you impatient.

ב BETH

9 How can a young man cleanse his way?

By taking heed according to Your word.

10 With my whole heart I have sought You;

Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!

11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,

That I might not sin against You.

12 Blessed are You, O Lord!

Teach me Your statutes.

13 With my lips I have declared

All the judgments of Your mouth.

14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,

As much as in all riches.

15 I will meditate on Your precepts,

And contemplate Your ways.

16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;

I will not forget Your word.

Day 25- Netzach of Netzach: Endurance in Endurance

John 15:1-8

Everyone has willpower and determination. We have the capacity to endure much more

than we can imagine, and to prevail under the most trying of circumstances.

Ask yourself: Is my behavior erratic? Am I inconsistent and unreliable? Since I have will

and determination, why am I so mercurial? Am I afraid of accessing my endurance and

committing? Do I fear being trapped by my commitment? If yes, why? Is it a reaction to

some past trauma? Instead of cultivating endurance in healthy areas, have I developed a

capacity for endurance of unhealthy experiences? Do I endure more pain than pleasure?

Do I underestimate my capacity to endure?

Exercise for the day: Commit yourself to developing a new good habit.

ג GIMEL

17 Deal bountifully with Your servant,

That I may live and keep Your word.

18 Open my eyes, that I may see

Wondrous things from Your law.

19 I am a stranger in the earth;

Do not hide Your commandments from me.

20 My soul breaks with longing

For Your judgments at all times.

21 You rebuke the proud—the cursed,

Who stray from Your commandments.

22 Remove from me reproach and contempt,

For I have kept Your testimonies.

23 Princes also sit and speak against me,

But Your servant meditates on Your statutes.

24 Your testimonies also are my delight

And my counselors.

Day 26 ― Hod of Netzach: Humility in Endurance

1 John 5:3-5

Yielding ― which is a result of humility ― is an essential element of enduring. Standing

fast can sometimes be a formula for destruction. The oak, lacking the ability to bend in
the hurricane, is uprooted. The reed, which yields to the wind, survives without a problem.
Do I know when to yield, out of strength not fear? Why am I often afraid to yield?

Endurance is fueled by inner strength. Hod of Netzach is the humble recognition and
acknowledgement that the capacity to endure and prevail comes from the soul that The

Most High gave each person. This humility does not compromise the drive of endurance;
on the contrary, it intensifies it, because human endurance can go only so far and endure
only so much, whereas endurance that comes from the Divine soul is limitless.

Do I attribute my success solely to my own strength and determination? Am I convinced
that I am all-powerful due to my level of endurance? Where do I get the strength at times
when everything seems so bleak?

Exercise for the day: When you awake, acknowledge The Most High for giving you a soul
with the extraordinary power and versatility to endure despite trying challenges. This will
allow you to draw energy and strength for the entire day.

ד DALETH

25 My soul clings to the dust;

Revive me according to Your word.

26 I have declared my ways, and You answered me;

Teach me Your statutes.

27 Make me understand the way of Your precepts;

So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works.

28 My soul melts from heaviness;

Strengthen me according to Your word.

29 Remove from me the way of lying,

And grant me Your law graciously.

30 I have chosen the way of truth;

Your judgments I have laid before me.

31 I cling to Your testimonies;

O Lord, do not put me to shame!

32 I will run the course of Your commandments,

For You shall enlarge my heart.

Day 27 ― Yesod of Netzach: Bonding in Endurance

John 15:9-15

Bonding is an essential quality of endurance. It expresses your unwavering commitment

to the person or experience you are bonding with, a commitment so powerful that you will

endure all to preserve it. Endurance without bonding will not endure.

Exercise for the day: To ensure the endurance of your new resolution, bond with it immediately.

This can be assured by promptly actualizing your resolution in some constructive deed or

committing yourself to another.

ה HE

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,

And I shall keep it to the end.

34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;

Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35 Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,

For I delight in it.

36 Incline my heart to Your testimonies,

And not to covetousness.

37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,

And revive me in Your way.

38 Establish Your word to Your servant,

Who is devoted to fearing You.

39 Turn away my reproach which I dread,

For Your judgments are good.

40 Behold, I long for Your precepts;

Revive me in Your righteousness.

Day 28 ― Malchus of Netzach: Nobility in Endurance

Sovereignty is the cornerstone of endurance. Endurance that encompasses the
previous six qualities is indeed a tribute and testimony to the majesty of the human
spirit. Is my endurance dignified? Does it bring out the best in me? When faced with
hardships do I behave like a king or queen, walking proudly with my head up, confident
in my The Most High-given strengths, or do I cower and shrivel up in fear? Exercise for the
day: Fight for a dignified cause.

ו WAW

41 Let Your mercies come also to me, O Lord—

Your salvation according to Your word.

42 So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me,

For I trust in Your word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,

For I have hoped in Your ordinances.

44 So shall I keep Your law continually,

Forever and ever.

45 And I will walk at liberty,

For I seek Your precepts.

46 I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings,

And will not be ashamed.

47 And I will delight myself in Your commandments,

Which I love.

48 My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments,

Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes.

WEEK 5 ― HOD ― HUMILITY

During the fifth week of counting the Omer, we examine and refine the emotional
attribute of Hod or humility. Humility ― and the resulting yielding ― should not be
confused with weakness and lack of self-esteem. Hod or humility is modesty ― it is
acknowledgment (from the root of the Hebrew word "hoda'ah"). It is saying "thank you"
to The Most High. It is clearly recognizing your qualities and strengths and
acknowledging that they are not your own; they were given to you by The Most High for a
higher purpose than just satisfying your own needs. Humility is modesty; it is recognizing
how small you are which allows you to realize how large you can become. And that makes
humility so formidable.A full cup cannot be filled. When you're filled with yourself and your
needs, "I and nothing else", there is no room for more. When you "empty" yourself before
something greater than yourself, your capacity to receive increases beyond your previously
perceived limits. Humility is the key to transcendence; to reach beyond yourself. Only true
humility gives you the power of total objectivity. Humility is sensitivity; it is healthy shame out
of recognition that you can be better than you are and that you can expect more of yourself.
Although humility is silent it is not a void. It is a dynamic expression of life that includes all
seven qualities of love, discipline, compassion, endurance, humility, bonding and sovereignty.

Day 29 ― Chesed of Hod: Loving-kindness in Humility

Hebrews 4: 1-16

Examine the love in your humility. Healthy humility is not demoralizing; it brings love and
joy not fear. Humility that lacks love has to be reexamined for its authenticity. Sometimes
humility can be confused with low self-esteem, which would cause it to be unloving.
Humility brings love because it gives you the ability to rise above yourself and love another.
Does my humility cause me to be more loving and giving? More expansive? Or does it inhibit
and constrain me?Exercise for the day: Before praying with humility and acknowledgment of
The Most High, give some charity. It will enhance your prayers.

ז ZAYIN

49 Remember the word to Your servant,

Upon which You have caused me to hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction,

For Your word has given me life.

51 The proud have me in great derision,

Yet I do not turn aside from Your law.

52 I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord,

And have comforted myself.

53 Indignation has taken hold of me

Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law.

54 Your statutes have been my songs

In the house of my pilgrimage.

55 I remember Your name in the night, O Lord,

And I keep Your law.

56 This has become mine,

Because I kept Your precepts.

Day 30 ― Gevurah of Hod: Discipline in Humility

James 4:13-17

Humility must be disciplined and focused. When should my humility cause me to

compromise and when not? In the name of humility do I sometimes remain silent

and neutral in the face of wickedness? Humility must also include respect and awe

for the person or experience before whom you stand humble. If my humility is wanting,

is it because I don't respect another?

Exercise for the day: Focus in on your reluctance to commit in a given area to see if it

originates from a healthy, humble place.

ח HETH

57 You are my portion, O Lord;

I have said that I would keep Your words.

58 I entreated Your favor with my whole heart;

Be merciful to me according to Your word.

59 I thought about my ways,

And turned my feet to Your testimonies.

60 I made haste, and did not delay

To keep Your commandments.

61 The cords of the wicked have bound me,

But I have not forgotten Your law.

62 At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You,

Because of Your righteous judgments.

63 I am a companion of all who fear You,

And of those who keep Your precepts.

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of Your mercy;

Teach me Your statutes.

Day 31 ― Tiferet of Hod: Compassion in Humility

Proverbs 3: 5-10

Examine if your humility is compassionate. Does my humility cause me to be

self-contained and anti-social or does it express itself in empathy for others. Is my

humility balanced and beautiful? Or is it awkward? Just as humility brings compassion,

compassion can lead one to humility. If you lack humility, try acting compassionately,

which can help bring you to humility.

Exercise for the day: Express a humble feeling in an act of compassion.

ט TETH

65 You have dealt well with Your servant,

O Lord, according to Your word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,

For I believe Your commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,

But now I keep Your word.

68 You are good, and do good;

Teach me Your statutes.

69 The proud have forged a lie against me,

But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart.

70 Their heart is as fat as grease,

But I delight in Your law.

71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted,

That I may learn Your statutes.

72 The law of Your mouth is better to me

Than thousands of coins of gold and silver.

Day 32 ― Netzach of Hod: Endurance in Humility

Proverbs 4:26-27

Examine the strength and endurance of your humility. Does my humility withstand
challenges? Am I firm in my positions or do I waffle in the name of humility? Humility
and modesty should not cause one to feel weak and insecure. Netzach of Hod underscores
the fact that true humility does not make you into a "doormat" for others to step on; on the
contrary, humility gives you enduring strength. Is my humility perceived as weakness?
Does that cause others to take advantage of me?

Exercise for the day: Demonstrate the strength of your humility by initiating or actively
participating in a good cause.

י YOD

73 Your hands have made me and fashioned me;

Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.

74 Those who fear You will be glad when they see me,

Because I have hoped in Your word.

75 I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right,

And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.

76 Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort,

According to Your word to Your servant.

77 Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live;

For Your law is my delight.

78 Let the proud be ashamed,

For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood;

But I will meditate on Your precepts.

79 Let those who fear You turn to me,

Those who know Your testimonies.

80 Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes,

That I may not be ashamed.

Day 33 ― Hod of Hod: Humility in Humility

Romans 8:5-8

Everyone has humility and modesty in their hearts, the question is the measure and

manner in which one consciously feels it. Am I afraid to be too humble? Do I mask and

protect my modesty with aggressive behavior? Humility must also be examined for its

genuineness. Is my humility humble? Or is it yet another expression of arrogance? Do I

take too much pride in my humility? Do I flaunt it? Is it self-serving? Is my humility part of

a crusade or is it genuine?

Exercise for the day: Be humble just for its own sake.

כ KAPH

81 My soul faints for Your salvation,

But I hope in Your word.

82 My eyes fail from searching Your word,

Saying, “When will You comfort me?”

83 For I have become like a wineskin in smoke,

Yet I do not forget Your statutes.

84 How many are the days of Your servant?

When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me?

85 The proud have dug pits for me,

Which is not according to Your law.

86 All Your commandments are faithful;

They persecute me wrongfully; Help me!

87 They almost made an end of me on earth,

But I did not forsake Your precepts.

88 Revive me according to Your lovingkindness,

So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.

Day 34 ― Yesod of Hod: Bonding in Humility

Isaiah 58:13-14

Humility should not be a lonely experience. It ought to result in deep bonding and
commitment. There is no stronger bond than one that comes out of humility. Does my
humility separate me from others or bring us closer? Does my humility produce results?
Long term results? Does it create an everlasting foundation upon which I and others can
rely and build.

Exercise for the day: Use your humility to build something lasting.

ל LAMED

89 Forever, O Lord,

Your word is settled in heaven.

90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;

You established the earth, and it abides.

91 They continue this day according to Your ordinances,

For all are Your servants.

92 Unless Your law had been my delight,

I would then have perished in my affliction.

93 I will never forget Your precepts,

For by them You have given me life.

94 I am Yours, save me;

For I have sought Your precepts.

95 The wicked wait for me to destroy me,

But I will consider Your testimonies.

96 I have seen the consummation of all perfection,

But Your commandment is exceedingly broad.

Day 35 ― Malchut of Hod: Nobility in Humility

Walking humbly is walking tall. Dignity is the essence of humility and modesty. The

splendor of humility is majestic and aristocratic. Humility that suppresses the human

spirit and denies individual sovereignty is not humility at all. Does my humility make

me feel dignified? Do I feel alive and vibrant?

Exercise for the day: Teach someone how humility and modesty enhance human dignity.

מ MEM

97 Oh, how I love Your law!

It is my meditation all the day.

98 You, through Your commandments, make me wiser than my enemies;

For they are ever with me.

99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,

For Your testimonies are my meditation.

100 I understand more than the ancients,

Because I keep Your precepts.

101 I have restrained my feet from every evil way,

That I may keep Your word.

102 I have not departed from Your judgments,

For You Yourself have taught me.

103 How sweet are Your words to my taste,

Sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104 Through Your precepts I get understanding;

Therefore I hate every false way.

WEEK 6 ― YESOD ― BONDING

During the sixth week of counting the Omer, we examine and refine the emotional

attribute of Yesod or bonding. Bonding means connecting; not only feeling for another,

but being attached to him. Not just a token commitment, but total devotion. It creates

a channel between giver and receiver. Bonding is eternal. It develops an everlasting

union that lives on forever through the perpetual fruit it bears.

Bonding is the foundation of life. The emotional spine of the human psyche. Every

person needs bonding to flourish and grow. The bonding between mother and child;

between husband and wife; between brothers and sisters; between close friends.

Bonding is affirmation; it gives one the sense of belonging; that "I matter", "I am

significant and important". It establishes trust ― trust in yourself and trust in others.

It instills confidence. Without bonding and nurturing we cannot realize and be

ourselves.

Day 36 ― Chesed of Yesod: Loving-kindness of Bonding

John 4:10-15

Love is the heart of bonding. You cannot bond without love. Love establishes a

reliable base on which bonding can build. If you have a problem bonding, examine

how much you love the one (or the experience) with which you wish to bond. Do I

try to bond without first fostering a loving attitude? Is my bonding expressed in a

loving manner?

Exercise for the day: Demonstrate the bond you have with your child or friend

through an act of love.

נ NUN

105 Your word is a lamp to my feet

And a light to my path.

106 I have sworn and confirmed

That I will keep Your righteous judgments.

107 I am afflicted very much;

Revive me, O Lord, according to Your word.

108 Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord,

And teach me Your judgments.

109 My life is continually in my hand,

Yet I do not forget Your law.

110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,

Yet I have not strayed from Your precepts.

111 Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever,

For they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112 I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes

Forever, to the very end.

Day 37 ― Gevurah of Yesod: Discipline of Bonding

1 John 1:1-3

Bonding must be done with discretion and careful consideration with whom and with

what you bond. Even the healthiest and closest bonding needs "time out", a respect

for each individual's space. Do I overbond? Am I too dependent on the one I bond with?

Is he too dependent on me? Do I bond out of desperation? Do I bond with healthy,

wholesome people?

Exercise for the day: Review the discipline in your bonding experiences to see if it

needs adjustment.

ס SAMEK

113 I hate the double-minded,

But I love Your law.

114 You are my hiding place and my shield;

I hope in Your word.

115 Depart from me, you evildoers,

For I will keep the commandments of my God!

116 Uphold me according to Your word, that I may live;

And do not let me be ashamed of my hope.

117 Hold me up, and I shall be safe,

And I shall observe Your statutes continually.

118 You reject all those who stray from Your statutes,

For their deceit is falsehood.

119 You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross;

Therefore I love Your testimonies.

120 My flesh trembles for fear of You,

And I am afraid of Your judgments.

Day 38 ― Tiferet of Yesod: Compassion in Bonding

John 1: 1-5; 14-18

Bonding needs to be not only loving but also compassionate, feeling your friend's

pain and empathizing with him. Is my bonding conditional? Do I withdraw when I

am uncomfortable with my friend's troubles?

Exercise for the day: Offer help and support in dealing with an ordeal of someone

with whom you have bonded.

ע AYIN

121 I have done justice and righteousness;

Do not leave me to my oppressors.

122 Be surety for Your servant for good;

Do not let the proud oppress me.

123 My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation

And Your righteous word.

124 Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy,

And teach me Your statutes.

125 I am Your servant;Give me understanding,

That I may know Your testimonies.

126 It is time for You to act, O Lord,

For they have regarded Your law as void.

127 Therefore I love Your commandments

More than gold, yes, than fine gold!

128 Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things

I consider to be right;I hate every false way.

Day 39 ― Netzach of Yesod: Endurance in Bonding

Matthew 6:31-34

An essential component of bonding is its endurance; its ability to withstand

challenges and setbacks. Without endurance there is no chance to develop

true bonding. Am I totally committed to the one with whom I bond? How much

will I endure and how ready am I to fight to maintain this bond? Is the person I

bond with aware of my devotion?

Exercise for the day: Demonstrate the endurance level of your bonding by

confronting a challenge that obstructs the bond.

פ PE

129 Your testimonies are wonderful;

Therefore my soul keeps them.

130 The entrance of Your words gives light;

It gives understanding to the simple.

131 I opened my mouth and panted,

For I longed for Your commandments.

132 Look upon me and be merciful to me,

As Your custom is toward those who love Your name.

133 Direct my steps by Your word,

And let no iniquity have dominion over me.

134 Redeem me from the oppression of man,

That I may keep Your precepts.

135 Make Your face shine upon Your servant,

And teach me Your statutes.

136 Rivers of water run down from my eyes,

Because men do not keep Your law.

Day 40 ― Hod of Yesod: Humility of Bonding

Colossians 3: 1-4

Humility is crucial in healthy bonding. Arrogance divides people. Preoccupation

with your own desires and needs separates you from others. Humility allows you

to appreciate another person and bond with him. Healthy bonding is the union of

two distinct people, with independent personalities, who join for a higher purpose

than satisfying their own needs. True humility comes from recognizing and

acknowledging The Most High in your life. Am I aware of the third partner ― The

Most High ― in bonding? And that this partner gives me the capacity to unite with

another, despite our distinctions.

Exercise for the day: When praying acknowledge The Most High specifically for

helping you bond with others.

צ TSADDE

137 Righteous are You, O Lord,

And upright are Your judgments.

138 Your testimonies, which You have commanded,

Are righteous and very faithful.

139 My zeal has consumed me,

Because my enemies have forgotten Your words.

140 Your word is very pure;

Therefore Your servant loves it.

141 I am small and despised,

Yet I do not forget Your precepts.

142 Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,

And Your law is truth.

143 Trouble and anguish have overtaken me,

Yet Your commandments are my delights.

144 The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting;

Give me understanding, and I shall live.

Day 41 ― Yesod of Yesod: Bonding in Bonding

Colossians 3:16-17

Every person needs and has the capacity to bond with other people, with significant

undertakings and with meaningful experiences. Do I have difficulty bonding? Is the

difficulty in all areas or only in certain ones? Do I bond easily with my job, but have

trouble bonding with people? Or vice versa?

Examine the reasons for not bonding. Is it because I am too critical and find fault in

everything as an excuse for not bonding? Am I too locked in my own ways? Is my

not bonding a result of discomfort with vulnerability? Have I been hurt in my past

bonding experiences? Has my trust been abused? Is my fear of bonding a result

of the deficient bonding I experienced as a child?

To cultivate your capacity to bond, even if you have valid reasons to distrust, you

must remember that The Most High gave you a Divine soul that is nurturing and

loving and you must learn to recognize the voice within, which will allow you to

experience other people's souls and hearts. Then you can slowly drop your

defenses when you recognize someone or something you can truly trust.

One additional point: Bonding breeds bonding. When you bond in one area of your

life, it helps you bond in other areas.

Exercise for the day: Begin bonding with a new person or experience you love by

committing designated time each day or week to spend together constructively.

ק QOPH

145 I cry out with my whole heart;

Hear me, O Lord!

I will keep Your statutes.

146 I cry out to You;

Save me, and I will keep Your testimonies.

147 I rise before the dawning of the morning,

And cry for help;

I hope in Your word.

148 My eyes are awake through the night watches,

That I may meditate on Your word.

149 Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness;

O Lord, revive me according to Your justice.

150 They draw near who follow after wickedness;

They are far from Your law.

151 You are near, O Lord,

And all Your commandments are truth.

152 Concerning Your testimonies,

I have known of old that You have founded them forever.

Day 42 ― Malchut of Yesod: Nobility in Bonding

Bonding must enhance a person's sovereignty. It should nurture and strengthen

your own dignity and the dignity of the one you bond with. Does my bonding inhibit

the expression of my personality and qualities? Does it overwhelm the one I

bond with?

Exercise for the day: Emphasize and highlight the strengths of the one with

whom you bond.

ר RESH

153 Consider my affliction and deliver me,

For I do not forget Your law.

154 Plead my cause and redeem me;

Revive me according to Your word.

155 Salvation is far from the wicked,

For they do not seek Your statutes.

156 Great are Your tender mercies, O Lord;

Revive me according to Your judgments.

157 Many are my persecutors and my enemies,

Yet I do not turn from Your testimonies.

158 I see the treacherous, and am disgusted,

Because they do not keep Your word.

159 Consider how I love Your precepts;

Revive me, O Lord, according to Your lovingkindness.

160 The entirety of Your word is truth,

And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.

WEEK 7 ― MALCHUT ― SOVEREIGNTY, LEADERSHIP

During the seventh and final week of counting the Omer, we examine and refine

the attribute of Malchut ― nobility, sovereignty and leadership. Sovereignty is a

state of being rather than an activity. Nobility is a passive expression of human

dignity that has nothing of its own except that which it receives from the other

six emotions. True leadership is the art of selflessness; it is only a reflection of a

Higher will. On the other hand, Malchut manifests and actualizes the character and

majesty of the human spirit. It is the very fiber of what makes us human.

Malchut is a sense of belonging. Knowing that you matter and that you make a

difference. That you have the ability to be a proficient leader in your own right.

It gives you independence and confidence. A feeling of certainty and authority.

When a mother lovingly cradles her child in her arms and the child's eyes meet

the mother's affectionate eyes, the child receives the message: "I am wanted and

needed in this world. I have a comfortable place where I will always be loved. I have

nothing to fear. I feel like royalty in my heart." This is Malchut, kingship.

Day 43 ― Chesed of Malchut: Loving-kindness in Nobility

1 Thessalonians 5:5-8

Healthy sovereignty is always kind and loving. An effective leader needs to be

warm and considerate. Does my sovereignty make me more loving? Do I exercise

my authority and leadership in a caring manner? Do I impose my authority on others?

Exercise for the day: Do something kind for your subordinates

ש SHIN

161 Princes persecute me without a cause,

But my heart stands in awe of Your word.

162 I rejoice at Your word

As one who finds great treasure.

163 I hate and abhor lying,

But I love Your law.

164 Seven times a day I praise You,

Because of Your righteous judgments.

165 Great peace have those who love Your law,

And nothing causes them to stumble.

166 Lord, I hope for Your salvation,

And I do Your commandments.

167 My soul keeps Your testimonies,

And I love them exceedingly.

168 I keep Your precepts and Your testimonies,

For all my ways are before You.

Day 44 ― Gevurah of Malchut: Discipline in Nobility

 1 Peter 5: 8-11

Although sovereignty is loving, it needs to be balanced with discipline. Effective

leadership is built on authority and discipline. There is another factor in the discipline

of sovereignty: determining the area in which you have jurisdiction and authority.

Do I recognize when I am not an authority? Do I exercise authority in unwarranted

situations? Am I aware of my limitations as well as my strengths? Do I respect the

authority of others?

Exercise for the day: Before taking an authoritative position on any given issue, pause

and reflect if you have the right and the ability to exercise authority in this situation.

ת TAU

169 Let my cry come before You, O Lord;

Give me understanding according to Your word.

170 Let my supplication come before You;

Deliver me according to Your word.

171 My lips shall utter praise,

For You teach me Your statutes.

172 My tongue shall speak of Your word,

For all Your commandments are righteousness.

173 Let Your hand become my help,

For I have chosen Your precepts.

174 I long for Your salvation, O Lord,

And Your law is my delight.

175 Let my soul live, and it shall praise You;

And let Your judgments help me.

176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep;

Seek Your servant,For I do not forget Your commandments.

Day 45 ― Tiferet of Malchut: Compassion in Nobility

Ephesians 6:10-13

A good leader is a compassionate one. Is my compassion compromised because

of my authority? Do I realize that an integral part of dignity is compassion?

Tiferet ― harmony ― is critical for successful leadership. Do I manage a

smooth-running operation? Am I organized? Do I give clear instructions to my

subordinates? Do I have difficulty delegating power? Do we have frequent staff

meetings to coordinate our goals and efforts?

Exercise for the day: Review an area where you wield authority and see if you can

polish it up and increase its effectiveness by curtailing excesses and consolidating forces.

א ALEPH

1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way,

Who walk in the law of the Lord!

2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,

Who seek Him with the whole heart!

3 They also do no iniquity;

They walk in His ways.

4 You have commanded us

To keep Your precepts diligently.

5 Oh, that my ways were directed

To keep Your statutes!

6 Then I would not be ashamed,

When I look into all Your commandments.

7 I will praise You with uprightness of heart,

When I learn Your righteous judgments.

8 I will keep Your statutes;

Oh, do not forsake me utterly!

Day 46 ― Netzach of Malchut: Endurance in Nobility

Ephesians 6:14-18

A person's dignity and a leader's success are tested by his endurance level. Will

and determination reflect the power and majesty of the human spirit. How

determined am I in reaching my goals? How strong is my conviction to fight for

a dignified cause? How confident am I in myself? Is my lack of endurance a result

of my low self-esteem? Do I mask my insecurities by finding other excuses for my

low endurance level?

Exercise for the day: Act on something that you believe in but have until now been

tentative about. Take the leap and just do it!

ב BETH

9 How can a young man cleanse his way?

By taking heed according to Your word.

10 With my whole heart I have sought You;

Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!

11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,

That I might not sin against You.

12 Blessed are You, O Lord!

Teach me Your statutes.

13 With my lips I have declared

All the judgments of Your mouth.

14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,

As much as in all riches.

15 I will meditate on Your precepts,

And contemplate Your ways.

16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;

I will not forget Your word.

Day 47 ― Hod of Malchut: Humility in Nobility

1 John 4: 4-6

Sovereignty is The Most High's gift to each individual. Hod of Malchut is the humble

appreciation of this exceptional gift. Does my sovereignty and independence humble

me? Am I an arrogant leader? Do I appreciate the special qualities I was blessed with?

Exercise for the day: Acknowledge The Most High for creating you with personal dignity

ג GIMEL

17 Deal bountifully with Your servant,

That I may live and keep Your word.

18 Open my eyes, that I may see

Wondrous things from Your law.

19 I am a stranger in the earth;

Do not hide Your commandments from me.

20 My soul breaks with longing

For Your judgments at all times.

21 You rebuke the proud—the cursed,

Who stray from Your commandments.

22 Remove from me reproach and contempt,

For I have kept Your testimonies.

23 Princes also sit and speak against me,

But Your servant meditates on Your statutes.

24 Your testimonies also are my delight

And my counselors.

Day 48 ― Yesod of Malchut: Bonding in Nobility

Jude 20-25

Examine the bonding aspect of your sovereignty. Healthy independence should not

prevent you from bonding with another person. On the contrary: self-confidence

allows you to respect and trust another's sovereignty and ultimately bond with him.

That bond will strengthen your own sovereignty, rather than sacrifice it.

Does my sovereignty prevent me from bonding? Could that be because of deeper

insecurities of which I am unaware? Do I recognize the fact that a fear of bonding

reflects a lack of self-confidence in my own sovereignty?

Exercise for the day: Actualize your sovereignty by intensifying your bond with a

close one.

ד DALETH

25 My soul clings to the dust;

Revive me according to Your word.

26 I have declared my ways, and You answered me;

Teach me Your statutes.

27 Make me understand the way of Your precepts;

So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works.

28 My soul melts from heaviness;

Strengthen me according to Your word.

29 Remove from me the way of lying,

And grant me Your law graciously.

30 I have chosen the way of truth;

Your judgments I have laid before me.

31 I cling to Your testimonies;

O Lord, do not put me to shame!

32 I will run the course of Your commandments,

For You shall enlarge my heart.

Day 49 ― Malchut of Malchut: Nobility in Nobility

Examine the sovereignty of your sovereignty. Does it come from deep-rooted inner
confidence in myself? Or is it just a put-on to mask my insecurities? Does that cause
my sovereignty to be excessive? Am I aware of my uniqueness as a person? Of my
personal contribution?

Exercise for the day: Take a moment and concentrate on yourself, on your true inner
self, not on your performance and how you project to others; and be at peace with
yourself knowing that The Most High created a very special person which is you.

ה HE

33 Teach me, O Lord, the way of Your statutes,

And I shall keep it to the end.

34 Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law;

Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart.

35 Make me walk in the path of Your commandments,

For I delight in it.

36 Incline my heart to Your testimonies,

And not to covetousness.

37 Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things,

And revive me in Your way.

38 Establish Your word to Your servant,

Who is devoted to fearing You.

39 Turn away my reproach which I dread,

For Your judgments are good.

40 Behold, I long for Your precepts;

Revive me in Your righteousness.

After the 49 days of Counting the Omer, after having fully achieved inner renewal by
merit of having assessed and developed each of our 49 attributes, we arrive at the
fiftieth day. On this day we celebrate the Festival of Shavuot, the giving of the Torah
(Matan Torah). After we have accomplished all we can through our own initiative, then
we are worthy to receive a gift (matan) from Above which we could not have achieved
with our own limited faculties. We receive the ability to reach and touch the Divine; not
only to be cultivated human beings who have refined all of our personal characteristics,
but divine human beings who are capable of expressing ourselves above and beyond the
definitions and limitations of our beings.