The Heikhalot Rabbati, a key text in the Heikhalot literature – a collection of mystical Jewish writings describing ascents to the divine throne – gives us a glimpse.
Imagine this: you’re standing before the seventh heavenly palace. And what do you see? Rivers of fire flowing beside the mangers of celestial horses. It’s a mind-bending image, right? These aren’t just ordinary horses; they're cosmic beings, each one drinking from a river that mirrors the Kidron Valley here on Earth – the same valley that collects all the rainwater of Jerusalem. Think of the symbolism there!
But the vision gets even more intense. Above these otherworldly steeds hangs a cloud, not of water, but of blood. Showering down upon them. According to the Heikhalot Rabbati, this is the sign. The unmistakable marker that you've reached the entrance of the seventh palace, and indeed, a horse guards the entrance of every palace in this celestial realm.
Now, here's the really wild part. Those who are worthy to descend to the Merkavah – the Divine Chariot, a central concept in Jewish mysticism based on the vision of Ezekiel – can witness this entire scene and emerge unharmed. They ascend, they see, and they return in peace. To do that, you must be worthy. As the text suggests, witnessing this awesome, shattering sight is something utterly beyond anything found in the palaces of earthly kings.
Why would anyone risk such a journey? Well, the reward is profound. Those who successfully navigate the celestial realms return to Earth with a sacred duty: to bless, praise, laud, adorn, elevate, embellish, and give glory, splendor, and greatness to Totrosiyah, described here as the Lord God of Israel.
And who is Totrosiyah? It's an enigmatic name, one of the many divine names used in mystical traditions. The Heikhalot Rabbati tells us that Totrosiyah rejoices in those who dare to undertake the Chariot ascent. Totrosiyah anticipates the day when every Jew will ascend with wondrous greatness and unusual power.
This points to a deeper yearning, a longing for a time when all are worthy to witness the divine. It speaks to the greatness of elevation and the power of the beings that praise before the Throne of Glory. Three times every day, these beings offer their praises. From the moment of creation until this very day.
The Heikhalot Rabbati offers us not just a fantastical vision, but a profound invitation. An invitation to contemplate our own relationship with the divine. And to strive to be worthy of witnessing the awe-inspiring glory that awaits those who seek it with a pure heart. What would you do if you stood before the Divine Chariot?