A kabbalistic and spiritual perspective on emotional sensitivity
In a world that often values speed, logic and toughness, it can be difficult to be sensitive and emotional. Many have heard, "You are too sensitive," as if it were a flaw. But according to Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), emotional sensitivity is not a weakness - it is a strength, a spiritual channel, and a sign of great inner depth.
The world of feeling in the Kabbalah
In Kabbalah, the soul is made up of ten divine attributes, the Sefirot. Six of these focus on emotion, also called the middot. Think of:
Chesed - love, kindness
Gevura - boundaries, discipline
Tiferet - beauty, compassion
Yesod - connection, attachment
Sensitivity comes from an active experience of these middot. A sensitive person feels these forces more strongly, more directly, and often faster than others. Instead of a closed heart, there is an open channel between the inner self and the world.
What does it mean to be sensitive?
A sensitive person...
feels deeply what others feel, is alert to atmosphere, nuance, silence, experiences joy and pain with full intensity and seeks meaning, truth, connection.
According to Jewish thinking, this is a sign of spiritual refinement - not weakness. The soul is like a vessel: the deeper the vessel, the greater the light that can shine in it.
But: a deep vessel must be well shaped, otherwise it will overflow.
Emotion demands direction
The Tanya, the classic work of Chabad Chassidut, teaches:
"The mind gives birth to the emotions." (Tanya, chapter 3)
That means: emotion must be guided by Da'at - inner awareness.
Sensitivity without direction can overwhelm. But sensitivity with direction becomes compassion, loyalty, and connection to G-d.
A sensitive person who learns to control, direct and sanctify his middot can:
Experiencing G-d's presence deeply, giving comfort and love to others, illuminating the world from within.
Sensitivity as a spiritual mission
Instead of putting away or hiding your sensitivity, you can start seeing it as a gift of the soul - a calling.
If you cry at injustice, you are a channel for justice.
When you are touched by beauty, you recognise G-d's hand in creation.
If you are quickly touched, you can also love quickly.
The world needs such souls, souls who feel before others understand.
Sensitivity is not a problem to fix. It is a strength to refine, a tool to serve G-d, and a path to connectedness.
In a harsh world, the meek are the hidden leaders.
So: be sensitive - with pride, with direction and with G-d.
Written by Sarah Bakker
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