Rabbi Ḥizkiyah began and said:
“The rose among the thorns. Who is the rose? It is the Assembly of Israel (Knesset Yisrael). For there is a rose, and there is a rose. Just as a rose among thorns has red and white, so too does the Assembly of Israel have judgment and mercy.
Just as a rose has thirteen petals, so does the Assembly of Israel, which has thirteen attributes of mercy surrounding it on all sides.
From this secret, the elders established thirteen words in the Shema prayer to protect Israel and allow them to endure.”
Simple Words
The human spirit is like a rose among thorns. Just as a rose has two colors, red and white, so too does the human heart have two important qualities: justice (being fair and strict) and mercy (being kind and forgiving).
Just like a rose has 13 petals, every person is surrounded by 13 special qualities of kindness that protect them. These qualities are like a shield that keeps them safe.
The passage also talks about a special way of connecting with the divine, which has 13 important principles. These principles were chosen carefully to help keep people safe, strong and connected to their inner selves.
The main idea is that just like a rose can grow beautifully even among thorns, every person can thrive even in difficult times. And just as the rose has its special protection (its thorns), every person has their special protection too (the 13 qualities of kindness and their connection to the divine).
This message is for everyone, reminding us that we all have the potential to grow, thrive, and connect with something greater than ourselves. It’s a message of hope, resilience, and unity.
The Zohar secrets are not limited to one group or community but are instead a universal call to connection, compassion, and kindness.
The 13 attributes:
The 13 attributes of mercy, are a central concept in Jewish mysticism and are based on Exodus 34:6-7. These attributes are considered to be the fundamental qualities of God’s mercy and are often recited in Jewish prayer and meditation.
- Hashem (The Lord) – God’s name, symbolizing His presence and power
- Hashem (The Lord) – again, emphasizing God’s merciful nature
- El (God) – representing God’s strength and justice
- Rachum (Merciful) – showing compassion and kindness
- Chanun (Gracious) – granting favor and forgiveness
- Erech Apayim (Slow to Anger) – patience and self-control
- Rabb Chesed (Abounding in Kindness) – overflowing with love and generosity
- Emmet (Truth) – representing God’s faithfulness and reliability
- Notzer Chesed LaAlafim (Keeping Kindness for Thousands) – remembering and rewarding good deeds
- Noseh Avon VaFesha VaChata’ah (Forgiving Iniquity, Transgression, and Sin) – pardoning mistakes and wrongdoing
- Naqeh Lo Yinakeh (Cleansing without Cleansing) – purifying without punishment or retribution
- Poqad Avon Avot Al Banim VaAl Shileshim LeRabim (Visiting the Iniquity of the Fathers upon the Children unto the Third and Fourth Generation) – considering the consequences of actions across generations
- WaOseh Chesed LaAlafim (Showing Loving-Kindness to Thousands) – demonstrating love and kindness to all people
These 13 attributes are considered a blueprint for human behavior, encouraging us to emulate God’s merciful qualities in our own lives. Individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of compassion, empathy, and connection with others by reciting or meditating on these attributes.
The 13 attributes can be seen as a universal framework for personal growth, relationships, and spiritual development – applicable to people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or faith tradition.
A Story Called The 13 Petals of Transformation
Alex embarks on a journey to discover and embody the 13 attributes of mercy.
The Beginning: Disconnection and Suffering
Alex lived a life marked by self-centeredness and disconnection. He was consumed by his ego, often prioritizing his desires above others’ needs. His relationships were superficial, and he struggled with anxiety and feelings of emptiness. Alex had no concept of the 13 attributes or their significance; his life was far from reflecting any of these qualities.
Attribute 1: Hashem (The Lord)
Awakening to a Higher Power
One day, while hiking in nature, Alex experienced a profound sense of awe and wonder. He felt an overwhelming connection to the universe as if something greater than
himself was at work. This encounter sparked a curiosity about the existence of a higher power. Alex began to explore spirituality, attending lectures and reading books on various faith traditions. He started to understand that there was more to life than his desires.
As Alex acknowledged the presence of Hashem in his life, he began to feel a sense of humility and openness. His relationships improved slightly, as he became more willing to listen and consider others’ perspectives.
Attribute 2: Hashem (The Lord)
Deepening Faith
Alex’s exploration of spirituality led him to join a community that shared his interests. Through discussions with like-minded individuals, he delved deeper into the concept of Hashem. He started attending prayer services and participating in group meditations. As he continued to nurture his faith, Alex developed a stronger sense of trust and reliance on this higher power.
His daily life began to reflect this growing faith; he became more patient and less reactive in challenging situations. Alex’s
relationships improved further as he learned to approach conflicts with empathy and understanding.
Attribute 3: El (God)
Embracing Strength and Justice
As Alex continued on his spiritual journey, he encountered situations that required him to stand up for what was right. He realized that true strength lies not in aggression but in compassion combined with courage. El’s attribute helped him develop inner fortitude, enabling him to address injustices without becoming aggressive or passive.
Alex started volunteering at local organizations that aligned with his values, using his strengths to make a positive impact in his community. His confidence grew as he discovered that true power comes from standing up for what is just and fair.
Attribute 4: Rachum (Merciful)
Cultivating Compassion
Through volunteering, Alex met people from diverse backgrounds who faced various struggles. As he listened to
their stories, he developed empathy and compassion for those who suffered injustices or hardship due to simple circumstances such as lack of resources and support. Rachum’s attribute helped him recognize the inherent value of each person regardless of their current condition.
His interactions became gentle and kind-hearted, seeking solutions rather than merely complaining about problems. People around started noticing a positive shift in attitude toward becoming a source of comfort and solace.
Attribute 5: Chanun (Gracious)
Practicing Forgiveness
One day, while volunteering, someone accidentally broke a valuable item that belonged to Alex. Initially, he felt angry and demanded compensation. However, he recalled a conversation about the importance of forgiveness and graciousness. Taking a deep breath, Alex decided to let go of his need for revenge and instead offered to help fix the broken item together.
This experience taught Alex about the value of Chanun, which allows space for others to make mistakes and learn from
them. As he practiced forgiving others, he felt a weight lifting off his shoulders, releasing the burden of resentment and anger. With time, Alex found that forgiveness brought him a sense of lightness and freedom.
As Alex embodied the attribute of Chanun, his relationships deepened, and trust was established. He began to offer apologies when he made mistakes and sought to make amends when harm was done. Slowly but surely, Alex rebuilt stronger connections with others, fostering healthier communication channels and more meaningful relationships.
Attribute 6: Erech Apayim (Slow to Anger)
Cultivating Patience
As Alex continued to work with others, he encountered situations that would have previously triggered his anger. However, with the attribute of Erech Apayim, he learned to pause and reflect before reacting. He started practicing mindfulness and meditation, which helped him develop a greater sense of self-awareness and patience.
One day, while working on a project, a team member made a mistake that could have derailed the entire effort. Instead of lashing out in anger, Alex took a deep breath and calmly addressed the issue. His patience and understanding helped resolve the problem without escalating tensions.
Alex’s relationships improved further as people began to appreciate his calm and composed demeanor. He became known for his ability to remain level-headed in challenging situations, earning the respect of his peers.
Attribute 7: Rabb Chesed (Abounding in Kindness)
Embodying Generosity
As Alex continued on his journey, he encountered opportunities to demonstrate kindness and generosity. He started volunteering at local charities, donating his time and resources to help those in need. Rabb Chesed’s attribute inspired him to go beyond mere acts of charity; he began to see the inherent value in every person and sought ways to uplift and support them.
Alex’s kindness had a profound impact on those around him. People began to open up to him, sharing their struggles and
fears. He listened with empathy and offered guidance when needed, becoming a source of comfort and strength for many.
Attribute 8: Emmet (Truth)
Embracing Authenticity
As Alex delved deeper into the attribute of Emmet, he realized the importance of authenticity in all aspects of life. He started being more honest with himself and others, acknowledging areas where he needed improvement. Emmet’s attributes helped him develop integrity, aligning his words and actions with his values.
Alex’s relationships became more genuine as he let go of pretenses and facades. He formed deeper connections with like-minded individuals who appreciated his authenticity.
Attribute 9: Notzer Chesed LaAlafim (Keeping Kindness for Thousands)
Fostering Legacy
With the attribute of Notzer Chesed LaAlafim, Alex began to think about the long-term impact of his actions. He realized
that every act of kindness had the potential to ripple outwards, touching countless lives across generations. This understanding inspired him to create sustainable initiatives that would continue beyond his lifetime.
Alex founded an organization dedicated to providing education and resources for underprivileged communities. As it grew, it became a beacon of hope and opportunity, inspiring others to follow suit.
Attribute 10: Noseh Avon VaFesha VaChata’ah (Forgiving Iniquity, Transgression, and Sin)
Practicing Redemption
As Alex worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, he encountered people who had made mistakes or poor choices in the past. Through the attribute of Noseh Avon VaFesha VaChata’ah, he learned to approach these individuals with compassion and understanding, rather than judgment or condemnation.
By creating counseling and mentoring programs, Alex helped provide pathways for rehabilitation and personal growth. These initiatives enabled offenders to find a new start and constructively reintegrate into society.
This experience taught Alex the importance of forgiveness in allowing other people to have second chances. He realized that forgiveness enables humanity to strive for self-improvement and become better versions of themselves. By embracing this attribute, Alex gained a deeper understanding of the transformative power of redemption and the potential for people to change and grow.
Attribute 11: Naqeh Lo Yinakeh (Cleansing without Cleansing)
Embracing Purity
As Alex continued his journey, he encountered situations that required him to confront his imperfections and those of others. With the attribute of Naqeh Lo Yinakeh, he learned to approach these challenges with a sense of purity and innocence. He realized that true cleansing comes not from external sources, but from within.
Alex started practicing self-reflection and introspection, acknowledging areas where he needed personal growth. He developed a daily routine of meditation and journaling, which helped him cultivate a sense of inner purity.
As Alex embodied this attribute, his relationships became more authentic and meaningful. He was able to connect with others on a deeper level, seeing beyond their external flaws and imperfections.
Attribute 12: Poqad Avon Avot Al Banim VaAl Shileshim LeRabim (Visiting the Iniquity of the Fathers upon the Children unto the Third and Fourth Generation)
Breaking Cycles
With the attribute of Poqad Avon Avot Al Banim VaAl Shileshim LeRabim, Alex gained insight into the intergenerational patterns that shape our lives. He realized that unresolved issues from past generations can continue to affect us today.
Alex started exploring his family history, seeking to understand the roots of any negative patterns or behaviors. Through this process, he was able to break free from cycles of negativity and create a new legacy for himself and future generations.
As he applied this attribute, Alex’s relationships with his family members improved significantly. He was able to communicate
more effectively with them, addressing long-standing issues and creating a more harmonious environment.
Attribute 13: WaOseh Chesed LaAlafim (Showing Loving Kindness to Thousands)
Embodied Compassion
With the final attribute, WaOseh Chesed LaAlafim, Alex’s journey came full circle. He had developed a deep understanding of compassion and kindness, recognizing that every action has the potential to impact countless lives.
Alex’s life became a testament to the power of embodied compassion. He continued to work tirelessly for the betterment of his community, inspiring others through his selflessness and generosity.
As he looked out at the world around him, Alex saw a tapestry woven from threads of kindness, forgiveness, and redemption. He knew that his journey was far from over, but he was confident in his ability to continue growing and spreading love and compassion to all those around him.
And so, Alex’s transformation was complete. From a place of disconnection and suffering, he had evolved into a beacon of hope and light for countless individuals. His story serves as a reminder that we all have the potential for growth, transformation, and a positive impact on the world around us.
Exercises for Transformation
Exercise 1: “Connection to the Divine”
Take a few minutes to sit in silence and focus on your breath.
As you inhale, repeat the phrase “Hashem” (The Lord) to yourself.
As you exhale, release any thoughts or worries, and simply be present in the moment. Reflect on how this practice makes you feel more connected to a higher power.
Exercise 2: “Faith Journaling”
Start a journal, writing down three things each day that you are grateful for.
Before writing, take a moment to reflect on how these blessings relate to your faith in a higher power. Consider how your faith has grown or deepened over time.
Exercise 3: “Standing Up for What is Right”
Identify an issue or cause that you feel strongly about, such as social justice or environmental conservation. Take one action to support this cause (e.g., volunteering, donating, spreading awareness).
Reflect on how taking action aligns with your values.
Exercise 4: “Compassion Meditation”
Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and focus on your breath.
Imagine someone who may be struggling or suffering (e.g., a friend, family member, or stranger). As you inhale, repeat the phrase “May they be happy” or “May they find peace. As you exhale, repeat the phrase “May their struggles ease” or “May they find comfort.” Continue this meditation for several minutes.
Exercise 5: “Forgiveness Letter”
Write a letter to someone who has wronged you in the past (but does not intend to send it). Express your feelings and concerns in the letter. Then, write a second letter from the perspective of forgiveness. Imagine that you have already forgiven this person and are at peace with what happened. Reflect on how writing these letters makes you feel about forgiveness.
Exercise 6: “Patience Practice”
Choose one situation each day where you might normally react impulsively or with anger (e.g., a traffic jam, or argument with someone). Take three deep breaths before responding or reacting. Ask yourself if there’s another way to handle the situation that doesn’t involve anger or frustration.
Exercise 7: “Random Acts of Kindness”
Perform one random act of kindness (e.g., buying coffee for someone behind you in line). Reflect on how these acts make others feel and how they make you feel about yourself.
Exercise 8: “Authentic Expression”
Write down three things that are true about yourself but may be difficult for others to hear. Share these truths with someone trusted in your life. Reflect on how expressing authenticity affects your relationships and sense of self-worth.
Exercise 9: “Legacy Reflection”
Imagine it’s five years from now. Write it down how do you want people to remember you? Write down ways you want to leave a positive impact on the world.
Consider actions that you can take today to create a legacy of kindness and compassion. Reflect on the importance of leaving a lasting impact.
Exercise 10: “Redemption Reflection”
Write down a personal experience where you felt like you had failed or made a mistake. Reflect on how you would like to make amends or start anew.
Consider what steps you can take to seek forgiveness from yourself or others.
Think about how this experience can help you grow and become a better version of yourself.
Exercise 11: “Purity Practice”
Practice self-reflection and introspection. Write down and answer questions like “What am I grateful for?” “What can I improve on?” and “What are my values and goals?” Reflect on how your thoughts, words, and actions align with your values and goals. Consider what changes you can make to cultivate greater purity and integrity in your life.
Exercise 12: “Breaking Cycles”
Identify a negative pattern or habit that has been passed down through your family or ancestors. Reflect on how this pattern has affected your life and relationships.
Consider what steps you can take to break free from this cycle and create a new legacy for yourself and future generations. Think about how you can use your experiences to help others break free from similar cycles.
Exercise 13: “Compassion in Action”
Choose someone in your life who is struggling or in need, such as a friend, family member, or neighbor. Think about what you can do to show them kindness and support. This could be something small like cooking them a meal, listening to them, or helping with errands. Take action and do something for this person without expecting anything in return. Reflect on how this experience has helped you cultivate compassion and empathy for others. Consider how you can continue to show kindness and support to those around you.
