The Rebbe said, “At the time, I became so involved in childishness that I became totally accustomed to acting that way. Later, when I reached the Holy Land, it was difficult to act otherwise. I actually had to force myself to break these childish habits.” It had become such a habit that it was very difficult to break.

Later, when he returned from his pilgrimage, he was very unique in this respect, lowering himself in order to reach higher levels. In this respect, his wisdom was outstanding.

It is a well-known fact that one must lower himself in order to proceed from one step to a higher one. At such a time, one must make use of childishness and absolute simplicity.²⁹ in Shevachey HaBaal Shem Tov, p. 224. Rebbe Nachman said that the Land of Israel is greatness of greatness, and therefore must be approached with smallness of smallness (Tzaddik #37).

footnotes: ²⁹ See Tzava'at HaBaal Shem Tov

The Rebbe never remained on one level, but constantly raised himself step by step. His understanding of these concepts was therefore very profound – deep, deep, who can fathom it? (Ecclesiastes 7:24).