The Means and the End
Don't fall in love with the hammer. Build the house.
Man is born to recognize the Reality from which he was created. This world is a means... not a goal. This world was not designed to be the goal. But a means that leads the person to understanding and recognition of the reality beyond it. And of his true essence.
This world is considered a stage on the way. A place where a person evolves spiritually... and includes the intention to ascend to higher levels of existence.
The Instruction
The Torah describes the way in which a person should walk in this world. But under no circumstances... to invest all his efforts in material achievements alone.
The goal of man is not to settle for the enjoyment of physical life. But to use them as a stage that comes to lead him to a more internal light. And to connect with the Spiritual World. Where he will be able to realize the purpose of his existence.
The Preparation
This world is like a “Preparation” for the World of Truth (Olam HaEmet). A world for eternity.
Everything a person goes through in it... All the trials and experiences he passes through here... There is in them an opportunity to understand the essence of the human. His duty as a Divine human. And to develop the Soul so that it will be worthy of its spiritual purpose.
The Release
When a person knows that this world is a means (Emtza’i) and not a goal (Matara)... He does not fall into the trap of grasping at matter and time. But strives to be connected to the Essence of life.