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Why does the Gemara (גמרא) teach that tzaddikim's accomplishments exceed creation itself? The shiur develops that while God created the world unilaterally, tzaddikim achieve partnership with God through tefillah and recognition of His kindness. This transforms mitzvah (מצוה) observance from obligation into relationship, where Torah (תורה) and prayer become expressions of mutual devotion rather than legal requirements.
This shiur delves into the profound Gemara (גמרא) teaching that "the accomplishment of tzaddikim is greater than ma'aseh shamayim v'aretz (the creation of heaven and earth)." The speaker explains that while God created the world with one hand (unilaterally), the actions of tzaddikim involve both hands - representing a partnership between God and man. The prime example is rain, which doesn't come solely from God's decree but requires the joint effort of divine potential and human recognition through prayer and gratitude. The fundamental purpose of creation, the speaker argues, is not individual spiritual achievement but relationship - God desires an ongoing connection with humanity. This relationship manifests through tefillah (prayer), which serves as the vehicle for this divine-human partnership. Before the sin in Gan Eden, Adam was placed there "l'ovda u'l'shomra" - to work and guard it. Rashi (רש"י) explains that "l'ovda" refers to tefillah, establishing that prayer was humanity's original purpose even before any commandments.
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Discussion of ma'aseh tzaddikim and ma'aseh shamayim v'aretz
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