We believe that the Torah is eternal and never-changing. And yet, the Arizal brought quite a number of innovations to our religion. Although none really change halacha, they certainly do build upon it, and require — or suggest - things of people that were never required nor suggested before... Thus, how are we to understand these innovations? Did the Torah change? Now we need to do these things, but even the greatest of men from previous generations did not?
On the flip side, once we establish that we should indeed be following the teachings of the Arizal (and to some extant, we all should be) then why do we not actually follow all of the teachings of the Arizal? Why have we only incorporated some of his teachings into mainstream halacha? If the man knows of what he speaks — and let's take for granted that he does — then why are we not following all of his revelations/suggestions? If indeed they come from God Himself (or angels or what-have-you) then why should we not follow everything he recommends?
I should note, I mean no disrespect in this question. Just trying to get a better understand as a thinking, observant Jew.
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