“In the vastness of an endless horizon, the Ohr Ein Sof, HaShem’s Limitless Radiance illuminates. Suddenly, at its heart, a space of profound absence forms, a testament to the Tzimtzum’s deliberate withdrawal. It isn’t just an absence of light, but a space carved by divine intention, paving the way for a distinct creation. From this profound space, slender beams of sacred light emerge, alluding to the impending creation of vessels to harness this light. The event vibrates with anticipation, preparing for the shattering and eventual mending of these vessels. A palpable reverence fills the atmosphere, underscoring this divine event’s cosmic magnitude.”
Our sages and mystics have long grappled with the profound question of how the Infinite, the boundless Ein Sof of HaShem, brought forth a finite world.
1. Ohr Ein Sof – The Infinite Light of HaShem
The term ‘Ohr Ein Sof’ refers to the infinite light of HaShem. It is the undifferentiated and boundless divine energy that existed prior to any act of creation. Before the cosmos, before time and space, there was only this infinite light. No duality, no distinction, just pure divine presence.
2. The Act of Tzimtzum – The Divine Contraction
Tzimtzum, which literally means ‘contraction’, refers to HaShem’s deliberate act of “withdrawing” or “contracting” His infinite light to create a metaphysical space, a void, where creation could occur. This was not a mere absence of light, but a purposeful contraction. It underscores the idea that the creation of the world was a deliberate act, stemming from HaShem’s desire to bestow goodness upon another.
3. The Void and its Purpose
The space that emerged from the Tzimtzum is often referred to as the ‘void’ or ‘empty space’. This void represents potentiality. It was within this space that HaShem would bring forth all of creation, allowing for a realm where free will, growth, and the ultimate purpose of creation – the revelation of the divine light in a world of seeming separation – would be realized.
4. The Formation of Vessels (Kelim)
As rays of divine light began to penetrate the void, they hinted at the formation of vessels or ‘kelim’. These vessels were intended to contain and channel the divine light. The vessels represent the structures, both spiritual and physical, that hold the divine light. They are the means through which HaShem’s presence is channeled and revealed within the created realm.
5. Shevirat HaKelim – The Breaking of the Vessels
Before the rectification, the divine light was too intense for the vessels, causing them to shatter. This cosmic event signifies the challenges, struggles, and brokenness that exist within our world. It gives purpose to our mission of ‘Tikkun Olam’, rectifying and elevating the sparks of divine light scattered throughout existence.
6. Tikkun – The Rectification
After the breaking of the vessels, there comes the process of Tikkun, the rectification and restoration. Tikkun is the ultimate goal of creation. It represents the journey of return, the elevation of the fallen sparks, and the realization of divine unity even within a world of multiplicity.
The described event lays the groundwork for all of existence and sets the stage for the human journey of return to the Source. It’s a narrative that underscores our purpose: to engage in the continuous act of Tikkun, rectifying our world and drawing it ever closer to its divine origin.
In the words of Rabbi Isaac Luria, the Arizal, from his seminal work Etz Chaim (Tree of Life), Tractate 1, Section 2: “Before the emanations were emanated and the creatures were created, the Upper Simple Light had filled the entirety of existence…and there was no vacancy, such as an empty atmosphere, a hollow, or a pit, but all was filled with the Simple, Boundless Light.” This passage beautifully echoes the themes expressed in the text and underscores the profound nature of the Tzimtzum and the divine act of creation.
May our continued exploration of these profound ideas in future lessons deepen our connection to HaShem and inspire us to fulfill our role in the grand cosmic scheme. Amen v’Amen.
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