NOTE: The last class on the previous Maamar (Noach) includes the first shiur of this Maamar also.
In the middle of this maamar begins the classic sugia of Taanug and Ratzon. The question is: which is ultimately higher in the Nefesh- taanug or Ratzon. The final conclusion is that the deepest level is a Taanug that is entirely inaccessible. Thus, as a practical Matter Ratzon is the highest idea. In Avoda this means that one reaches Atzmus mamosh only through Mitzvos, and not through Torah. This conclusion begins to change in the Maamar of Chayey sara (VeAvrohom Zakein).