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In the world of philosophy, seemingly distinct ideologies often share surprising resonances beneath the surface. Such is the case when we explore the concept of "capital" in Karl Marx's works and philosophy, and its remarkable parallels with the concept of "egoism" in Kabbalistic thought, particularly as inspired by the teachings of Rabbi Yehuda Ashlag. At first glance, these two ideas appear disconnected—one rooted in socio-economic critique, the other in mystical spirituality. However, a deeper analysis reveals profound commonalities that suggest a shared conceptual foundation. This essay delves into the core tenets of Marx's notion of "capital" and Rabbi Ashlag's insights on "egoism" to demonstrate their unexpected convergence and to explore the implications of this intersection on our understanding of both ideologies.

I. Understanding "Capital" in Marx's Works:
Karl Marx's conception of "capital" is central to his critique of capitalism. Capital, in the Marxist framework, primarily refers to the accumulation of wealth and resources by the capitalist class, the bourgeoisie. It includes not only physical assets but also the means of production, such as factories and machinery. Marx contends that capitalism thrives on the exploitation of labor, where the bourgeoisie extract surplus value from the proletariat's labor, resulting in economic inequality and alienation.
Capitalism, as Marx argues, is driven by an inherent tendency to accumulate capital relentlessly. This dynamic, he claims, leads to an ever-increasing divide between the wealthy and the working class. It is within this process of capital accumulation that we find parallels with Kabbalistic thought.

II. Exploring "Egoism" in Kabbalistic Thought:
In Kabbalistic thought, particularly as influenced by Rabbi Yehuda Ashlag, "egoism" represents a profound spiritual concept. Egoism, or "yetzer hara" in Hebrew, refers to the evil inclination or selfish desires inherent in human nature. This inclination is seen as the source of disconnection from the divine and the root of all negative actions.
Rabbi Ashlag teaches that the path to spiritual growth involves transcending egoism, striving for selflessness, and seeking unity with the divine. Egoism, in this context, is not merely a personal attribute but a spiritual force that separates individuals from their true, higher selves. By overcoming egoism, one can reconnect with the divine and attain spiritual enlightenment.

III. Unveiling the Parallels:
At first glance, it might seem that "capital" in Marxism and "egoism" in Kabbalistic thought are unrelated. However, a deeper analysis reveals profound parallels:
(a) Relentless Accumulation:
In Marxism, capital accumulates relentlessly as the bourgeoisie seek to maximize profits. This constant drive for accumulation can be seen as analogous to the ceaseless expansion of egoism in Kabbalistic thought. Egoism, like capital, exhibits a perpetual appetite, constantly urging individuals to fulfill their desires, often at the expense of others. Both capital and egoism represent forces that seem insatiable. However, both capital and egoism are part of a greater, natural system which will end by the self-overcoming of those "evil inclinations" and a communion of humanity-- "communism" in Marxist thought, and "chibur" in Kabbalah (meaning "connection"; "union").

(b) Alienation and Disconnection:
Marx's critique of capitalism emphasizes the alienation and disconnection experienced by the working class, who feel estranged from the products of their labor-- and further, the ruling class is disconnected in its dialectical process from the working class. Similarly, egoism in Kabbalistic thought is considered a source of disconnection from the divine; "malkhut" ("kingdom" of egoism), the lowest sefirah in the Kabbalistic Tree of Life (just like the working class) is disconnected its work to go up the ladder of the spiritual degrees, and from "keter" ("crown"), the highest sefirah. It leads individuals to prioritize their selfish desires over spiritual growth, causing spiritual alienation. Both ideologies recognize the damaging effects of unchecked forces on human well-being.

(c) Transformation and Liberation:
Both Marx and Rabbi Ashlag offer pathways to transformation and liberation. Marx envisions a revolutionary overthrow of capitalism, where the proletariat seizes control of the means of production, leading to a classless society. In Kabbalistic thought, the liberation from egoism involves a spiritual journey towards selflessness and unity with the divine. Both paths require individuals to confront and transform the dominating force—capital or egoism—in pursuit of a more just and spiritually fulfilling existence-- functioning in the exact same way: The working class (humanity/malkhut) has to go against its appeal to capital (egoism), i.e. against its will (such as how "labour" is defined in kabbalistic thought). At the end of both paths, humanity unites totally into one (i.e. communizes, hence the end-state is called "communism") and is filled with happiness.

IV. Implications and Conclusions:
The convergence of "capital" in Marx's works and "egoism" in Kabbalistic thought illuminates profound connections between ideologies that, on the surface, appear distant. Both concepts highlight the relentless nature of certain forces—capital's drive for accumulation and egoism's pursuit of selfish desires. They both recognize the alienation and disconnection that these forces can engender in individuals.
Furthermore, both ideologies offer pathways to transformation and liberation, whether through a socio-economic revolution as envisaged by Marx or through a spiritual journey as advocated by Kabbalistic thought. These paths necessitate a confrontation with the dominant force—capital or egoism—in the pursuit of a more just and spiritually fulfilling existence.

In essence, the parallels between "capital" and "egoism" remind us that profound ideas can transcend disciplinary boundaries. While Marx's critique of capitalism and Rabbi Ashlag's teachings on egoism may address different realms, they converge in their recognition of the profound impact of relentless, ego-driven forces on individuals and societies. This intersection invites us to explore these ideologies in tandem, enriching our understanding of both and fostering a deeper appreciation for the interplay between socio-economic structures and spiritual growth. And, accordingly, we realize how communism's purposes are rooted in spiritual thinking, where it is about changing our own perception, thinking, and nature, for the greatest good.