A Maze

Living in this world may be compared to a maze, where there are numerous paths, many of which are confusing and interlacing, and all of which appear similar. The goal is to reach a portico in its midst. Some of the paths indeed lead to the goal, while others are deceptive and lead away from the goal. However, one cannot tell which is which, unless one has successfully mastered the maze and reached the portico. Someone standing on top of the portico has a view of all the paths, which are true and which are deceptive, and he can call to those who enter the maze, "Follow this path," or "Avoid that path." One who heads this guide will soon arrive at the goal, while one who persists in pursuing his own intellect will blunder and may never arrive at the goal.

(Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato)