2.40: Derech Hashem B'Iyun Book 1 Chapter 5 Part 3

Rabbi Shulman continues the Ramchal’s discussion of how Hashem structured reality as a system of “roots and branches,” where higher spiritual powers are the roots and the physical world is their downstream expression. He explains the metaphor of **השתלשלות** as a chain of worlds in which the “lowest” aspect of a higher realm becomes the “highest” entry-point into the realm beneath it, and he clarifies the role of **מלאכים** as intermediaries who ensure the correct execution of divine influence. Rabbi Shulman then emphasizes a key interpretive principle: whatever exists “up there” corresponds to what we see “down here,” but only after stripping away physical form to identify the underlying essence—allowing us to relate to Hashem’s hanhagah through tangible mashalim.

Outline: https://danielggordon.github.io/ateresami/dh-biyun-1-5-3-20260623-121135-outline-20260623-121230.pdf