He suggests that the answer lies in the very structure of creation itself, in the Partzufim (divine countenances) of the worlds and souls. Think of it like this: the purest elements, the most refined vessels, are chosen first. They're at the vanguard, closest to the source.
Baal HaSulam explains that this principle applies to generations as well. The vessels of ḤaBad—Ḥokhmah (wisdom), Binah (understanding), and Da'at (knowledge)—were selected first, both from the world and from the souls within it. Consequently, the souls inhabiting the first two thousand years were on a far higher spiritual plane than those that came after.
But here's the paradox: if they were so elevated, why didn't they achieve the ultimate illumination, the "perfect light"?
Baal HaSulam's explanation is fascinating. Even with their inherent purity, those early generations couldn't attain complete fulfillment. Why? Because the lower levels, the ḤaGaT NaHYM—Ḥesed (loving-kindness), Gevurah (strength), Tiferet (beauty), Netzah (endurance), Hod (splendor), Yesod (foundation), and Malchut (kingdom)—weren't yet fully formed, either within themselves or in the world around them. The vessel wasn't fully prepared.
It's a powerful reminder that spiritual progress isn't just about individual attainment. It's a collective endeavor. Even the most advanced souls are limited by the overall state of being. It's not enough to have wisdom, understanding, and knowledge (ḤaBad) if loving-kindness, strength, beauty, endurance, splendor, foundation, and kingdom (ḤaGaT NaHYM) are underdeveloped.
What does this mean for us today? Perhaps it suggests that we have a responsibility to cultivate not only our intellect and spiritual understanding, but also our capacity for love, compassion, and ethical action. Only then can we truly build the complete vessel needed to receive the full light of divine presence. It's a challenge, and an opportunity, for every generation.