Moses received the Torah at Sinai and transmitted it to Joshua, Joshua to the elders, and the elders to the prophets, and the prophets to the Men of the Great Assembly. (Mishnah, Pirkei Avot, Chapter 1).

Question: The Mishnah has not only a corporeal, but also a Kabbalistic meaning.

Should we approach these texts with literal understanding or should we
seek the reforming light in them?

Answer: We in particular seek texts the force of connection in these so that the Creator can be revealed in us.

Question: Why does the Mishnah specifically mention the transmission of the Torah from Moses through Joshua to other sages?

Answer: At that time, the Torah was still transmitted verbally. Each sage received, what they passed on to their disciples.

Therefore, the Mishnah describes the sages passing on their spiritual attainments. Antigonus received certain teachings from Shimon the Righteous and passed them on. Yose ben Yoezer of Tzreida received from Yose ben Yochanan of Jerusalem and passed it on. Yose ben Yochanan of Jerusalem said something, meaning he taught his disciples a particular principle, and so on.
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From the Daily Kabbalah Lesson 6/22/24, “Mishna, Pirkei Avot”

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