 and future are as one.
G-d's Essence, however, cannot be obtained through this form of service, for even the loftiest levels are not suitable vessels for G-d's Essence. It is specifically through our service in the lowest levels, working and refining the physical world, down to and including the "Egyptian language," that we are capable of receiving from and connecting to Anochi. For as the verse states regarding the Holy Temple: "Behold, the Heavens and the Heavens of Heavens cannot contain You, and yet this [physical] house can!"
The lesson is clear: We cannot make do by only involving ourselves in personal matters of holiness; we must occupy ourselves in sanctifying the world as well, transforming the world into a receptacle for G-dliness.
So, too, with regard to our personal spiritual lives: Merely occupying ourselves with Torah study, prayer and the performance of mitzvos does not suffice. We must know G-d "in all our ways," i.e., that also those permissible worldly matters - those things on the level of "Egypt" - with which we occupy ourselves, should similarly be connected to G-d.
Based on Likkutei Sichos, Vol. III, pp. 892-894.
2. Tanchuma (Buber), Yisro 16; Yalkut Shimoni, ibid.
3. See Rashi, Shmos 24:12; Zohar II, 90b.
4. Shelah, beginning of Parshas Yisro in the name of "Kadmonim."
5. See Shelah, ibid; Tanya, ch. 20.
6. Zohar II, 85b.
7. Pesachim 87b; conclusion of Tractate Sotah.
8. Melachim I, 8:27.
9. Mishlei 3:6; Tur and Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim, ch. 231.