The Inside of a Cup

(copyright 2003 by the Author)

What is the most important part of a bejeweled silver goblet? Is it the magnificently sparkling jewels, the beautifully finished silver, or maybe even the skilled craftsmanship that intricately combines all of the beauty into a wondrous work of art?
The answer is: None of these!

The purpose of making the goblet, is to be a vessel, with which to drink. So what is the most important part of the vessel?
Its "contained‑emptiness".

If not for this, it wouldn't be a goblet. Despite all the jewels, the silver, and the crafts­manship, it would not be fulfilling its purpose for being created. The external container is not impor­tant by itself; it is the actual use of it, to serve man, that gives it its true value.

If a person does not fill the vessel, but only admires the exterior, he will eventually die of thirst, G‑d forbid.
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The same is true of all existence.

The world was originally created by G‑d to be a vessel. The external part of the vessel was strewn with innumerable jewels, diamonds, gold, etc., an endless assortment of materials and means for physical pleasure.

But, as with a precious goblet, if we only admire the exterior, yet never fill the physical vessel of life, we will also slowly die of thirst. Not a physical death, but a spiritual one.

For you see, the world was created to be a vessel for G‑d,
and He left the filling, to us!