the ultimate unity with G*d is accomplished specifically through following G*d's example and performing acts of loving kindness.
In other words, the highest form of cleaving to G*d can only be accomplished through these latter actions, and not by performing the actions and commandments referred to earlier when the verse declared, "obey His commandments."
This, too, must be understood: All mitzvos bring about an attachment between man and G*d; what greater attachment is achieved by doing those things that fall under the heading of "cleaving to G*d"?
G*d commanded us to perform Mitzvos, and we perform them because we are so obligated. It therefore follows that the attachment achieved by performing mitzvos is one in which the performer is continuously aware of his own self; it is he who is becoming attached to G*d through his performance.
This is not so with regard to "cleaving to G*d." Although "cleaving to G*d" begins as the result of a command, the performance, completion, and totality of the command involves the total loss of any sense of self, for the person is wholly engulfed within Him – he cleaves to Him.
The difference between mitzvos in general and performing those actions that result in "cleaving to Him" is thus the difference between "attachment to G*d" and "cleaving to G*d":
"Attachment to G*d" - the state achieved through the regular performance of Torah and mitzvos
- is similar to attaching two separate objects one to another and tying them
together. Even after the objects have become