Chovos Halvavos begins Shaar HaBechinah — discovering Hashem through the wonders of His creations. Rather than relying on complicated philosophical arguments, Rabbeinu Bachya teaches us to look at the world around us and recognize the extraordinary wisdom of its Creator. This isn't merely a way to strengthen our emunah; examining Hashem's creations is itself one of the duties of the heart.

Shlomo Hamelech teaches that Hashem created the world so that mankind would fear Him. But what happens when we enjoy the benefits of creation without giving a thought to their Creator? We explore this idea through the mashal of a magnificent book being used as a dinner placemat — and discover what it means to miss the very purpose of creation.

Chovos Halvavos brings its Hakdamah to a close by explaining the final two Shaarim. Shaar HaPrishus teaches us to free our minds from excessive attachment to worldly pleasures, which Rabbeinu Bachya compares to being intoxicated by the “wine of the love of this world.” As long as our minds are consumed by worldly pursuits, there's little room left for genuine awareness of Hashem.

And where does this entire journey lead? To Shaar Ahavas Hashem — the ultimate goal of Chovos Halvavos. Every Shaar builds toward this final destination: developing a genuine love of Hashem. With the Hakdamah complete, we're ready to begin Shaar HaBechinah and discover Hashem through the wonders of His creations.

Chovos Halvavos continues explaining how the ten Shaarim build upon one another. Once we recognize Hashem's absolute oneness, learn to see Him in the world around us, and devote ourselves to His service, we come to understand that everything we do must be directed toward Hashem alone — even ordinary activities like eating and sleeping.

This recognition leads us to humility (Shaar HaKniyah), and when we inevitably fall short, to teshuvah (Shaar HaTeshuvah). But how do we know where we're falling short in the first place? That's where Cheshbon HaNefesh comes in — learning to examine ourselves honestly and measure how well we're fulfilling our obligations to Hashem.