27) 27) This is the understanding of the Zohar and the subsequent Kabbalistic teachings that all our service and prayers are specifically directed to Zeir Anpin (the Lesser Countenance). As it is stated in the Zohar, "Look, fear the Lord your God" (Deuteronomy 10:12). It is written not as "elohaykha" (your God) but as "et Hashem elohaykha" (the Lord your God). What is the meaning of "et," which precedes the word "Hashem"?
It is explained in the Galyon Malkhut (an exposition of the Zohar) with the interpretation "et Hashem elohaykha" means "Fear the 'et' of the Holy One, blessed be He." Because from there, "Bar Nash" (the Son) needs to fear before his Master, for He is in the house of judgment. And that service, which is of a higher degree, sustains the lower degree and is not revealed to the worlds. "Et" and "v'et" are connected and are not separated.
What is "v'et"? It is the sign of the Holy Covenant, an eternal sign, for that quality does not descend, and it does not reveal itself but rather ascends. But that quality ascends on high. Therefore, "v'et" signifies service (meaning the service is to Zeir Anpin, as it is stated: "And serve Him, and cleave to Him" (Deuteronomy 13:5)).
Refer to the Sefer Hamitzvot (Book of Commandments) in the prayer of Elijah the Prophet, which is explained at length. This is the language of the Zohar, according to the commentary of the Rashba (Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderet) in Galyon. The intention of the Zohar is to interpret why it is not written, "Fear the Lord your God and serve Him," but rather it is written "et" (the word "et" adds emphasis). This is to include and amplify the attribute of Malchut (Kingship), which is the female aspect of Zeir Anpin, in the aspect of fear.
And from what is written "v'et oto ta'avod" (and you shall serve Him), it minimizes it from the service, specifically "v'et oto ta'avod" (and you shall serve Him), and not "oto ta'avod" (Him you shall serve). This means that it amplifies the aspect of fear and minimizes it from the service, because the service is specifically to Zeir Anpin.