10 Timeless Teachings From the Ramak That Still Inspire Today

Today, the 23rd of Tammuz, marks the 456th yahrzeit of Rabbi Moshe Cordovero, known as the Ramak, one of the greatest kabbalists of 16th century Safed. Beyond his profound contributions to Kabbalah, the Ramak left behind one of Judaism's most beloved ethical classics, Tomer Devorah, a guide to refining one's character by emulating Hashem's attributes.

Here are some fascinating facts about the Ramak, followed by ten timeless teachings from Tomer Devorah that continue to inspire generations.

A Giant of Torah and Kabbalah

Rabbi Moshe Cordovero was one of the leading kabbalists of Safed during the 16th century. His family originated in Cordoba, Spain, from which his surname is derived.

He studied the revealed aspects of Torah under Rabbi Yosef Karo, author of the Shulchan Aruch, while the hidden wisdom of Kabbalah was taught to him by his brother in law, Rabbi Shlomo Alkabetz, the renowned kabbalist and author of Lecha Dodi. He also received rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Yaakov Beirav.

After his marriage, the Ramak established a yeshivah in Safed that became one of the leading centers of Torah learning of its time. Many of his students later became prominent Torah scholars, including Rabbi Chaim Vital, Rabbi Eliyahu Di Vidas, author of Reishit Chochmah, Rabbi Avraham Galanti, and others.

The Ramak and the Ari

Before his passing, the Ramak's students asked who would continue leading the circle of kabbalists in Safed.

He replied that the next leader would be the one who saw a pillar of fire preceding his funeral procession.

During the funeral, Rabbi Yitzchak Luria Ashkenazi, the holy Ari, pointed toward the burial place, explaining that the pillar of fire was leading there. The students understood that the Ari was destined to become the next spiritual leader of Safed's community of kabbalists.

Rabbi Moshe Cordovero passed away on the 23rd of Tammuz, 5330 (1570), at just 48 years old. He was buried in the ancient cemetery of Safed.

His Major Works

Despite his short life, the Ramak authored an extraordinary number of foundational Torah works, including:

• Pardes Rimonim, his systematic presentation of Kabbalah.
• Or Yakar, an extensive commentary on the Zohar.
• Elimah Rabbati.
• Or Ne'erav.
• Sefer Gerushin.
• Tefillah LeMoshe.
• Zivchei Shelamim.
• Tomer Devorah, his celebrated ethical work that combines the teachings of Kabbalah with practical guidance for developing refined character and walking in Hashem's ways.

The holy Shelah praised Tomer Devorah in his introduction to the work, writing:

"Anyone who regularly studies this book every week or every month is assured a portion in the World to Come."

Ten Timeless Teachings From Tomer Devorah

1. Share in Another Person's Joy and Pain

The Ramak teaches that just as Hashem desires our good and does not delight in our suffering, we should genuinely rejoice in another person's success and feel their pain as if it were our own. True kindness begins with sincere empathy.

2. Do Not Hold Onto Anger

Even when rebuke is necessary, resentment should never become permanent. The goal is to correct behavior, not to reject the person. Whenever possible, people should be drawn close through love rather than pushed away through lasting anger.

3. Teshuvah Can Strengthen a Person

Unlike human beings, who often struggle to forgive completely, Hashem lovingly accepts sincere teshuvah. The Ramak teaches that genuine repentance can elevate a person to an even higher spiritual level than before the sin.

4. Forgive With Your Whole Heart

When someone sincerely seeks forgiveness, we should not continue harboring old resentment. Instead, we should respond with compassion and renewed love, following Hashem's own example.

5. Every Mitzvah Has Eternal Value

Hashem does not simply cancel mitzvot against sins. Every mitzvah retains its eternal worth, while sins are judged separately. This reflects Hashem's perfect justice and immense kindness toward those who serve Him.

6. Honor Every Creation

Every creature reflects the wisdom of its Creator. The Ramak teaches that we should respect all of Hashem's creations and sincerely hope that even those who have gone astray will return through teshuvah.

7. Think About How to Help Others

Just as the mind guides the body, a person should constantly look for ways to benefit others, strengthen the community, and gently guide those who have lost their way.

8. Show Compassion to All Living Things

The Ramak emphasizes that mercy should extend to all of Hashem's creations. Nothing should be harmed or destroyed without genuine necessity, since every part of creation reflects Divine wisdom.

9. Live With Constant Teshuvah

Teshuvah is not reserved for special moments. It is a lifelong mindset of continual spiritual growth, self reflection, and closeness to Hashem.

10. Love Hashem Above All Else

The highest form of kindness begins with complete love of Hashem. His service should remain a person's highest priority, whether life brings blessing or hardship, trusting that everything ultimately comes from His love.

More than 450 years after the Ramak's passing, Tomer Devorah continues to serve as a timeless guide for anyone seeking to refine their character and draw closer to Hashem. Its teachings remind us that true greatness is measured not only by Torah knowledge, but by our ability to show compassion, forgive, love others, and strive each day to walk in the Creator's ways.