Rabbi Judah ben Bezalel Lowe, known as the Maharal of Prague was famous among Jews and non-Jews alike. He was a mystic who was revered for his holiness and Torah scholarship, as well as his proficiency in mathematics, astronomy, and other sciences. Eventually, word of his greatness reached the ears of Emperor Rudolph II.
The Emperor invited the Maharal to his castle on February 23, 1592. There they conversed for one and a half hours, and developed a mutual respect for each other.
Rabbi Judah Lowe made use of his excellent connections with the Emperor, often intervening on behalf of his community when it was threatened by anti-Semitic attacks or oppression.
See that I am giving to you today a blessing and a curse. (Deuteronomy 11:26)
Why “see?” Blessings and curses are not seen. They are heard or understood.
Rather, it means to see with a vision that is not swayed by the illusions of physical sensation.
It means to see beyond this moment now. Beyond the hard, prickly shell of your pain and sorrows. Beyond your restrictive concept of self. Beyond ego or expectation.
See with the spark of G‑d within you and you will discover the spark of divine light within each of your troubles.
Look yet deeper, and you will see within every challenge unimaginable blessings.
Even those things you take to be a curse—step back, close your eyes, and see deep within them G‑d's outstretched arm drawing you towards Him in embrace.