Gevura, within the Kabbalistic tradition, represents a profound connection to our neshama, the soul’s essence, transcending mere personality traits and the illusions that often cloud our self-perception. This Sefira embodies the concept of inner strength and discipline, akin to the valor of a hero—derived from the Hebrew word “gibor,” sharing the root g-b-r. Such strength enables us to transcend our limitations, revealing the roles we inhabit and our behavioral patterns, especially when faced with life’s challenges.
The hero’s path: the sefira of gevura
This form of discipline, gevura, is not about adhering to routines; it’s a transformative process that aligns us with the deeper willpower within. It echoes Michelangelo’s sentiment that within every block of marble lies a statue, awaiting to be unveiled by removing the excess. Gevura offers us the tools to chisel away our superficial aspects, allowing our true higher self to emerge.
Engaging with gevura initiates a transformative journey, far removed from the superficial disciplines propagated by contemporary culture. Unlike the ego-driven pursuits of success, reminiscent of narratives like “The Wolf of Wall Street,” gevura asks us to discipline our lower selves. It’s about discipling our lower to self, to enable the higher self, enabling us to evolve from mere participants in life to leaders who embody purpose and vision.Destruction of our not serving patterns.
From a psychological standpoint, this mirrors the journey of self-actualization, where the realization of one’s potential becomes the highest form of psychological growth. The discipline of gevura is akin to the psychological concept of delayed gratification, where the temporary discomfort of self-restraint leads to greater rewards. This inner work is essential for leaders who aspire to transition from operational roles to strategic visionaries, guiding their organizations towards a higher purpose.
Examples of c-level: the sefira of gevura
The strong, alpha leader, that had to come to terms with his or own vulnerability. Gevura helped him to discipline his ego and in stead of fighting strategic battles to show his challenges, learnings and imperfections helping him form stronger bonds with his team and c-level team.
The innovative and visionary leader that had to destroy his mental patterns of thinking, analzing and had to find mental calmness by destroying this pattern and unleashing more focus and energy to give direction and clarity enabling him for a c-level promotion.
The people leader in the board room, who had to induce discipline to go against the dogmatic thinking and speak truth to power. To stop her tendency to go with the flow (unconsciously) and show her vision.
The challenge: self inducing sefira
The challenge lies in distinguishing true gevura from fleeting pleasures or avoidance of pain. When the discipline feels like a bittersweet act of self-restraint, a conscious destruction of the lower self for the sake of higher aspirations, it’s a sign of genuine engagement with one’s deeper will. This is the essence of gevura: a transformative discipline that guides us from the confines of our immediate desires to the expansive realm of our soul’s potential.
About Circle of Gerona
We create/facilitate executive leadership programs, pilgrimages and sometimes concepts.
With our experience in the world of business, corporate leadership and Kabbalah we help executives to create from their core like great leaders.