Tomer Devorah: Exploring the 13 Attributes of Mercy: A Path to Personal Transformation

 

*Rabbi Moshe Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah explores the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy (Yud Gimel Middot HaRachamim), as listed in Sefer Shemot 34:6-7. These attributes describe the ways in which G-d interacts with the world, particularly in how He expresses compassion, patience, and forgiveness. Cordovero explains how each attribute reflects a Divine quality that we should strive to emulate in our own lives.

The Jewish people are made in the “image” of Hashem. Mystically speaking, this means that our personal spiritual attributes mirror those of Hashem. 

There is a tradition to learn the first chapter of the Tomer Devorah from Elul through to Yom Kippur. Learning this chapter is especially helpful during this time because it makes one’s Selichot and Yom Kippur recitations of the 13 Attributes much more meaningful.  The ultimate goal is for a person to become so familiar with the 13 Attributes’ meanings and applications that they can be consciously, regularly, and ultimately reflexively applied in one’s life.

To be privileged to channel G-d's blessing and benefit into the world, man must emulate his Creator. It is insufficient that man is created in the Divine likeness - he must constantly, consciously, and willingly cleave to G-d by emulating Him in ever way. This emulation is the subject of Tomer Devorah.

Let’s explore these attributes in depth, along with the practical and mystical insights that Cordovero provides.

1. Hashem (י-ה-ו-ה)

• What G-d Does: G-d's Name is the very first of the attributes, reminding us of His eternal consistency. He remains unchanged in His essence, embodying a continual presence of mercy and compassion.
  
  
• What We Can Do: We are encouraged to be consistent and trustworthy, especially in our commitments to others. By striving to keep our word and being reliable, we reflect the divine trait of steadfastness.

2. Hashem (ה׳) – again

• What G-d Does: Here, G-d’s Name is repeated to emphasize His mercy before and after we sin. Even after we falter, He offers us the space and time to repent.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Offer others the same grace. When people apologize or try to make amends, even if imperfectly, we should accept their efforts without holding grudges.

3. Kel (אל) – All-Powerful

• What G-d Does: Though He has the power to instantly bring justice for our misdeeds, G-d withholds His wrath, giving us the opportunity to change.
  
  
• What We Can Do: When anger or frustration arises, instead of reacting in the moment, we can practice restraint. Tap into your inner strength to avoid harmful reactions and instead respond from a place of calm.

4. Rachum (רַחוּם) – Compassionate

• What G-d Does: G-d cares deeply for all His creations, especially those in pain. He provides healing and sustenance when we are in need.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Show empathy to others in their suffering. By offering assistance, whether through a kind word or a helping hand, we can ease another’s pain and reflect G-d’s compassion.

5. Chanun (חַנּוּן) – Gracious

• What G-d Does: G-d bestows goodness upon us, even when we do not deserve it. His gifts come freely and generously.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Practice acts of kindness “just because.” Do favors for others, not because they’ve earned it, but because it's a reflection of your generous heart.

6. Erech Apayim (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם) – Slow to Anger

• What G-d Does: G-d gives us ample time to recognize our mistakes, repent, and make changes before delivering judgment.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Cultivate patience. When provoked, don’t react immediately. Take time to cool off, reflect, and approach the situation with clarity rather than haste.

7. Rav Chesed (רַב חֶסֶד) – Abundant in Kindness

• What G-d Does: G-d's kindness is boundless, continually giving to all of Creation. He finds joy in offering His creatures goodness, even when undeserved.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Seek opportunities to brighten someone’s day. Whether it’s a smile, a compliment, or a charitable act, aim to spread kindness without expecting anything in return.

8. Emet (אֶמֶת) – Truthful & Faithful

• What G-d Does: G-d is loyal to His promises and rewards those who strive to improve themselves. His truth is unwavering.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Be a loyal friend and avoid gossip. Speaking well of others behind their backs and staying true to your commitments reflects the Divine quality of truth.

9. Notzer Chesed La’alafim (נֹצֵר חֶסֶד לָאֲלָפִים) – Preserves Kindness for Thousands of Generations

• What G-d Does: G-d rewards good deeds not only for the doer but for their descendants. He holds onto merit, benefitting generations to come.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Express gratitude when someone does something kind for you. Reciprocate by doing good for them and their family, creating a ripple of kindness that lasts beyond the immediate moment.

10. Noseh Avon (נֹשֵׂא עָוֹן) – Lifts Sins

• What G-d Does: G-d removes sins from the scales of justice, tipping them in favor of mercy.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Focus on the positive qualities of others and be quick to overlook their flaws. By seeing the good in others, we help to “lift” them from their own mistakes.

11. V’Pesha (וָפֶשַׁע) – Forgives Rebellion

• What G-d Does: Even those who willfully rebel against G-d are given the chance to repent. G-d does not shut the door on anyone, no matter how far they have strayed.
  
  
• What We Can Do: Allow people the opportunity to regain your trust, even if they have hurt you deeply. Everyone deserves a second chance.

12. V’Chata’ah (וְחַטָּאָה) – Forgives Mistakes

• What G-d Does: G-d forgives sins born of carelessness or apathy, recognizing that we often fall short due to human frailty.
  
  
• What We Can Do: When others err, attribute their mistakes to carelessness rather than malice. Be quick to forgive those who didn’t intend harm

13. V’Nakeh (וְנַקֵּה) – Cleanses

• What G-d Does: When we truly repent and strive to improve, G-d wipes away our sins as though they never existed. His forgiveness is complete.
• What We Can Do: Forgive others wholeheartedly. Make those who have wronged you feel completely forgiven, offering them a fresh start without holding onto the past.

The Thirteen Attributes of Mercy serve as a profound guide for human behavior, challenging us to refine ourselves in ways that align with Divine compassion, patience, and justice. By striving to reflect these qualities in our daily lives, we can elevate ourselves spiritually and create a more compassionate world around us. Tomer Devorah provides not only a framework for ethical conduct but also a path for inner transformation, guiding us toward becoming vessels for Divine Light.

The Power of Practicing the 13 Attributes

The Talmud teaches that when G-d wrapped Himself in a tallit and taught Moshe the 13 Attributes, He promised that anyone who embodies these qualities can bring about Divine forgiveness. If we commit ourselves to practicing these attributes in our daily lives—towards our family, friends, and even strangers—we align ourselves with G-d’s compassion. And just as He deals kindly with us, we too can transform our relationships and help to heal the world.

As we approach Yom Kippur, let’s focus on embodying these traits, striving to be more compassionate, patient, and forgiving. In doing so, we not only improve ourselves but also strengthen the bonds of unity and peace around us.

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[The Sefirot]

The sefirot are the Attributes of the Holy One, Blessed Be He (Shiur Komah, ch. 3, par.4)

The 13 Attributes of Mercy, as revealed to Moshe Rabbeinu, align deeply with the mystical structure of the Sefirot, the ten emanations through which G-d interacts with the world in Kabbalistic thought. Each attribute corresponds to one or more Sefirot, showcasing how Divine mercy is integrated into the spiritual flow from G-d’s Infinite Light into the physical world. By aligning the 13 Attributes with the Sefirot, we gain insight into the deeper spiritual dynamics at play and how these Divine traits can manifest through us.

1. Hashem (י-ה-ו-ה) – Keter (Crown)

• What it represents: Keter - so sublime that it is called "the most hidden of all hidden things." Keter is the Divine Will and the highest of the Sefirot, representing pure mercy, beyond judgment. It is the source of all blessings, even before they reach the world.
• Connection to the Attribute: Hashem’s eternal nature, reflected in His Ineffable name, is linked to the Sefirah of Keter, as it represents the transcendence of G-d beyond time and space. It is the ultimate source of compassion, before any action or judgment takes place.

2. Hashem (י-ה-ו-ה) – Chochmah (Wisdom)

• What it represents: Chochmah - G-d's first creative activity, called "the beginning" where everything else derives. The flash of Divine Wisdom, the first revelation of the Infinite Light, from which all other emanations flow.
• Connection to the Attribute: The second mention of Hashem’s Name represents His mercy even before sin, the wisdom inherent in the Divine plan. This parallels Chochmah, the hidden and foundational wisdom that guides all creation and judgment, always infused with mercy.

3. Kel (א-ל) – Binah (Understanding)

• What it represents: Binah is the Sefirah of understanding, associated with discernment, empathy, and deep contemplation. Chochmah becomes known only through binah, which expands and elucidates it. Binah represents the expansion and development of Divine Wisdom. Often called "teshuvah."
• Connection to the Attribute: Kel is the expression of G-d's powerful kindness. Binah is often referred to as the "mother" in Kabbalistic texts, emphasizing nurturing and mercy. G-d's strength in holding back judgment parallels the deep understanding and compassion found within Binah.

4. Rachum (רַחוּם) – Chesed (Kindness)

• What it represents: Chesed is pure loving-kindness, the outpouring of unbounded generosity and love from G-d to the world.
• Connection to the Attribute: Rachum, meaning compassionate, aligns with Chesed, as it reflects the overwhelming mercy that G-d bestows on all creatures. It is the first step of Divine kindness, reaching out to heal and protect.

5. Chanun (חַנּוּן) – Gevurah (Strength/Discipline)

• What it represents: Gevurah is the Sefirah of judgment, discipline, and restraint. While it appears strict, it has a hidden element of mercy, as proper boundaries and discipline allow for true growth.
• Connection to the Attribute: Chanun reflects mercy given even when undeserved, which is a form of discipline in itself. Gevurah teaches that even within strict judgment, there is room for grace, restraint, and the ability to offer mercy to those who repent.

6. Erech Apayim (אֶרֶךְ אַפַּיִם) – Tiferet (Harmony/Beauty)

• What it represents: Tiferet is the Sefirah of harmony and balance, synthesizing Chesed and Gevurah. It represents compassion, beauty, and mercy balanced with judgment. 
• Connection to the Attribute: Erech Apayim, meaning "slow to anger," reflects the balanced harmony of Tiferet. It demonstrates how mercy and patience harmonize with justice, allowing time for repentance and reconciliation.

7. Rav Chesed (רַב חֶסֶד) – Netzach (Endurance)

• What it represents: Netzach represents endurance, eternity, and the victory of G-d’s mercy over the trials and challenges of life.
• Connection to the Attribute: Rav Chesed, abundant in kindness, is associated with Netzach as it represents the ongoing, enduring kindness that G-d extends to His creations. G-d's mercy endures forever, constantly sustaining us even when times are difficult.

8. Emet (אֶמֶת) – Hod (Glory/Humility)

• What it represents: Hod represents sincerity, humility, and submission to a higher truth. It is the acknowledgment of G-d's truth and our dependence on His mercy.
• Connection to the Attribute: Emet, meaning truth, aligns with Hod because true humility is grounded in acknowledging the truth of G-d’s Presence and Will. Hod teaches us to surrender to Divine truth, leading to a deeper connection with the reality of G-d's compassion.

9. Notzer Chesed La’alafim (נֹצֵר חֶסֶד לָאֲלָפִים) – Yesod (Foundation)

• What it represents: Yesod is the Sefirah of foundation, representing the channel through which Divine blessings flow into the world. It is the connector between the upper and lower realms, ensuring the transmission of goodness.
• Connection to the Attribute: Notzer Chesed La’alafim, preserving kindness for thousands of generations, parallels Yesod, as Yesod preserves and transmits Divine blessings to future generations. It represents continuity, ensuring that G-d’s kindness reaches every part of creation.

10. Noseh Avon (נֹשֵׂא עָוֹן) – Malchut (Kingship)

• What it represents: Malchut is the Sefirah of kingship. It is uniquely passive, having nothing but that which other sefirot pour into it. Malchut is the last of the ten sefirot, the final receptacle of Divine Light that brings G-d's sovereignty into the world. It represents the manifestation of all the upper Sefirot in the physical world. 
• Connection to the Attribute: Noseh Avon, the lifting of sins, aligns with Malchut because it reflects the realization of Divine forgiveness in the world. Malchut, the Sefirah that represents the culmination of Divine mercy, allows for the forgiveness of sins to take effect and manifest in our reality.

11. V’Pesha (וָפֶשַׁע) – Malchut (Kingship)

• What it represents: As with Noseh Avon, Malchut is also associated with V’Pesha, the forgiveness of willful rebellion. G-d’s kingship is not compromised by human defiance, and Malchut represents His ability to reign with mercy, even over those who rebel against Him.

12. V’Chata’ah (וְחַטָּאָה) – Gevurah (Strength/Discipline)

• What it represents: This attribute is connected to Gevurah’s aspect of discipline and cleansing. Gevurah demands accountability, but V'Chata'ah shows that God tempers judgment with understanding of human frailty.
• Connection to the Attribute: Just as Gevurah represents disciplined strength, V’Chata’ah aligns with the Divine ability to forgive unintentional sin, allowing judgment to be mitigated with mercy and compassion.

13. V’Nakeh (וְנַקֵּה) – Tiferet (Harmony/Beauty)

• What it represents: Tiferet, the central Sefirah of harmony, balances all the opposing forces within the Sefirot and represents the ultimate beauty of G-d’s mercy.
• Connection to the Attribute: V’Nakeh, cleansing and purifying sins, reflects the beauty of Tiferet, where mercy and justice unite perfectly. G-d’s ability to fully cleanse a repentant person mirrors the harmony and beauty that Tiferet brings into the world.
  
  

Excerpt from the Ramak, Tomer Devorah; The Sefirot:

The sefirot are the Attributes of the Holy One, Blessed Be He (Shiur Komah, ch. 3, par.4). A brief analysis of the word "sefirah" will clarify the function of the sefirot. The word may be derived from:

1. a word meaning "number" or "counting" (מספר), thus signifying a Divine limitation on Creation.
2. a word meaning "book" (ספר), signifying a well-ordered and defined blueprint of Creation.
3. a word meaning "inventory" (ספירת דברים), signifying the inventory of the deeds of the Holy One, Blessed Be He.
4. a word meaning "shining" (ספירות), like a luminous precious stone (cf. sapphire), signifying the purpose of the sefirot - to illuminate and radiate revelation.
5. a word meaning "border" or "boundary" (ספר), signifying division and limitation.
6. a word meaning "story" (סיפור), signifying the story of G-d's acts of Creation, man's deeds, and the unfolding of past, present, and future. (Eilimah Rabbati, pt. 1, tamar 6, ch.2)

Tikkunei Zohar sums up all these difinitions: 

"You are He Who brought forth ten 'garments,' which we call ten sefirot, through which to direct both hidden worlds - which are never revealed - and revealed worlds; through them, You conceal Yourself from man... Each sefirah has a specific name... You, however, have no specific name, for You permeate all names, and You are the perfection of them all... You are wise, but Your wisdom is unknowable; You have no specific place. [You have clothed Yourself in the sefirot] only to make known to mankind Your power and strength and to show [us] how the world is conducted through law and mercy - for there is righteousness and justice, which are dispensed according to the deeds of man..." 

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*Rabbi Moshe Cordovero - The Ramak