Ruchnius

Ruchnius (Hebrew: רוחניות), meaning "spirituality" in Hebrew, refers to the aspects of life that are connected to the soul, divine purpose, and the inner, non-physical dimensions of human experience. In Jewish thought, Ruchnius is often contrasted with Gashmius (materialism or physicality), which pertains to the physical, material world. Ruchnius emphasizes the pursuit of spiritual growth, connection to God, and fulfillment of divine commandments (mitzvot) as pathways to elevate oneself beyond the material realm.

A Jewish boy at his Bar Mitzvah, reading from the Torah, marking a significant spiritual milestone in his journey of Ruchnius (spiritual growth).

Etymology and definition

The word Ruchnius is derived from the Hebrew word ruach (Hebrew: רוח), meaning "spirit" or "wind," symbolizing the unseen and transcendent aspects of existence. In Jewish tradition, Ruchnius refers to the spiritual dimension of life, including the pursuit of holiness, connection to God, and ethical behavior. It encompasses religious practices such as prayer, Torah study, and personal development.

Ruchnius vs. Gashmius

One of the core tensions in Jewish life is the balance between Ruchnius (spirituality) and Gashmius (physicality). While Gashmius refers to the physical world and material needs, such as food, wealth, and bodily comforts, Ruchnius focuses on the inner spiritual life, moral development, and connection to the divine. The two are not seen as inherently opposed but are often in tension, requiring individuals to prioritize the spiritual without neglecting their material needs.

Judaism teaches that while physical needs are essential for survival, they must be engaged with in a way that serves higher, spiritual goals. For example, eating can be an act of Gashmius, but when done with the right intentions, such as reciting blessings or eating in the context of a mitzvah, it is elevated to an act of Ruchnius.

Pursuit of Ruchnius

The pursuit of Ruchnius is a lifelong endeavor in Jewish thought. It involves engaging in Torah study, prayer, acts of kindness (chesed), and the performance of mitzvot. Spiritual growth requires constant self-refinement, an awareness of one's moral and ethical behavior, and a focus on deepening one's relationship with God. This process is often accompanied by introspection and efforts to align one's actions with Jewish teachings.

In addition, Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah) and Chassidic thought place great emphasis on Ruchnius as a means to transform both the self and the world. The Chassidic masters taught that one's spiritual efforts have the potential to elevate not only oneself but also the physical world around them, by infusing it with holiness and divine purpose.

The balance between Ruchnius and Gashmius

Judaism does not advocate for complete asceticism or rejection of the physical world. Instead, it teaches that physical and spiritual aspects of life should complement one another. Material possessions and physical pleasures are not inherently negative, but they must be utilized in a way that enhances one's spiritual growth. This principle is illustrated in Jewish teachings about the use of wealth, food, and other physical resources in a manner that serves God.

Rabbinic literature emphasizes that while it is important to earn a livelihood and provide for one's family, these pursuits should not overshadow one's spiritual goals. Rather, the material should be seen as a means to support and enhance one's Ruchnius.

Nature and Ruchnius

The relationship between nature and Ruchnius is also explored in Jewish thought. Nature is seen as a reflection of God's greatness and a source of inspiration for spiritual contemplation. Jewish teachings encourage individuals to see the natural world not merely as physical creation but as a manifestation of divine will and an opportunity to connect with Ruchnius.

Ruchnius in daily life

In daily Jewish life, Ruchnius manifests through regular practices like prayer, Torah study, and observance of commandments. Each of these activities serves to elevate the individual from the mundane and material into a higher, spiritual state. For instance, prayer is seen as a direct connection to God, allowing one to transcend the physical realm and engage in spiritual dialogue.

The mitzvah of honoring one's parents (Kibbud Av v'Em) is another example of Ruchnius in action. It represents not just a physical act of care but a deeper, spiritual recognition of the divine commandment to honor those who gave life.

Challenges to Ruchnius

In the modern world, maintaining a focus on Ruchnius can be challenging due to the distractions and demands of material life. Jewish leaders and educators often emphasize the importance of creating spaces and times dedicated to spiritual pursuits, such as Shabbat and the festivals, to help individuals remain grounded in their spiritual goals despite the pull of materialism.

See also

• Chassidus
• Torah study
• Mitzvot
• Jewish spirituality