Summary

Asher learns from the mashpia that the Rebbe wants to meet with him. In preparation for the meeting, Asher spends a week reviewing the Torah with the mashpia. He learns that there are three levels of Jews: those who sin and have evil thoughts, those who live a pious life but can’t control their sinful thoughts, and those who have complete control over their hearts and lives. He also learns that Jews strive to become one with God, while Gentiles only strive to become independent beings. He also studies the sitra achra, “the realm of darkness and evil given life by God…”

When Asher shows up for his meeting with the Rebbe, he sees a white-haired man in the waiting room who is wearing a beret and writing in a notebook. As Asher waits, he notes that the man is not writing in the...