A full immersion

This week’s Torah portion dives deep into the process of purification for a person afflicted with tzara’at, biblical leprosy. One of the steps in this purification involves immersion in water.

But not just any water will do. The Torah distinguishes between two types of purifying waters: spring water and mikveh water. Spring water flows constantly from a natural source, while mikveh water is collected rainwater that remains still. Both work for purification purposes, but each teaches us something unique about personal growth and spiritual renewal.

One interesting difference between the two: A mikveh requires a specific volume of water—at least forty se’ah (a biblical measure equivalent to approximately 160 gallons) to be valid. Without this, it can’t purify. Spring water, on the other hand, has no minimum requirement. Even a small drop can purify someone, as long as they can immerse in it.

Water in Judaism often symbolizes Torah, which is seen as a source of spiritual cleansing and vitality. Like the waters of a spring or a mikveh, Torah can purify our souls and reconnect us to our true selves. But just as there are two types of water, there are two approaches to Torah study.

Spring water is dynamic, always connected to its source. When we learn Torah with a deep awareness that it’s G-d’s wisdom, it’s like immersing in a spring. Every word we study carries an endless connection to its divine source. It’s alive, flowing, and transformative.

Mikveh water, though stationary, also purifies. But for it to work, it requires a minimum volume. The lesson there is, that when we approach Torah study without actively feeling its divine holiness—when it’s more intellectual than spiritual—it can still transform us. However, this approach requires immersion in significant depth and breadth of learning. The sheer quantity of Torah can surround and elevate us, even if we’re not consciously connecting to its divine essence.

While this method is effective, it’s not as immediate or powerful as the spring. It takes time and effort to reach a point where the Torah’s impact becomes evident.

Enter the wisdom of Chassidic teachings. Like spring water, Chassidut emphasizes the holiness in every drop of Torah. It reveals how even a single idea, when studied with the awareness of its divine origin, can inspire change. It’s no wonder that people who delve into Chassidic teachings often experience profound shifts in their character and perspective. By highlighting the spiritual depth in Torah, Chassidut transforms learning into an act of connection, not just comprehension.

When we study Torah in this way, we carry its vitality into all aspects of our lives. Even small moments of learning become sources of strength, clarity, and joy.

Life is full of moments where we feel disconnected or stuck. Maybe it’s a rough patch in a relationship, frustration at work, or just the general grind of life. These moments are like spiritual impurities—they weigh us down. Torah is the water that can wash those feelings away and refresh us.

If you’re the type who thrives on small, meaningful doses, lean into the “spring water” approach. Open a book of Chassidut or study a verse of Torah with an open heart. If you prefer structure and depth, immerse yourself in a mikveh of Torah by setting aside regular time to learn.

The beauty is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. Both approaches work, and both are pathways to growth. The key is to start—whether it’s with a single drop or a full immersion.