The Three Decrees

Holiness can be found in three realms, space, time and soul [olam-shana-nefesh] as is taught in the kabalistic book Sefer Hayetzirah. This is based on the word "ashan" [by golly my computer refuses to write hebrew characters!] we see at Har Sinai [vihahar koolo ashan], the ayin is olam, the shin is shana and the nun [not the one with the habit] is nefesh.

The Greeks famously banned three things corresponding to "ashan". Shabbos, Rosh Chodesh and Milah. Shabbos is the blessing the Jews bring to the world which is above nature. Chodesh is our holiness in time. We count according to the moon which is constantly renewed. Milah is the mark of holiness on our nefesh [a person's soul is blemished if he lacks a bris].

Sfas Emes 1847