Our entire path is the gradual correction of our use of the will to receive. This would start with taking the “lightest” bit of our desire that we can possibly use in order to bestow.
That’s incorrect. It does not “downplay” knowledge since the “reason” or “knowledge” is necessary to build faith above it.
Don’t forget that “corporeal” actually means “in order to receive”. This should help clear up some confusions along the way if you write this down and do not forget it.
Technically there’s no “desire to bestow” we just call it as such, but yes, the soul is the “device” which is our intention to bestow above our will to receive.