It's not always a smooth, linear process. Sometimes, it takes a little... well, a collision.

In Kabbalah, the emergence of a lower partzuf – a spiritual configuration or "face" – is deeply intertwined with this idea of "fusion through collision." Think of it as two forces meeting head-on, sparking something new. But what exactly collides?

According to the Sulam Commentary, the primary element is the supernal light impacting the parsa, or partition. This collision determines the height, or spiritual level, of the lower partzuf. It's like setting the boundaries, the playing field, for what's about to emerge. This echoes what we've discussed before, as it determines the measure of the height of the lower partzuf, as is known.

But there's another crucial element: the awakening of the feminine waters, or mayin nukvin. This is where it gets really interesting. The “feminine waters” are not literally water, of course. In Kabbalistic thought, the feminine represents the principle of receiving, while the masculine represents giving. The "feminine waters" are the yearning from below for the light of Ḥokhma, or wisdom. This yearning is expressed as the ascent of Ze'er Anpin – a central partzuf representing the emotional attributes – to higher levels, acting as a middle line between realms.

So how does this awakening happen? The Keter and Ḥokhma – the crown and wisdom – of the lower partzuf attach themselves to the Bina, Tiferet, and Malkhut – understanding, beauty, and kingdom – of the upper one. Now, if you're thinking, "Wait, what?" you're not alone. This is complex stuff!

Think of it this way: as was explained in the discussion of the rectification of lines, and the adjoining sections (section 20 and in subsequent sections), the Bina, Tiferet and Malkhut of an upper partzuf are ejected and join the Keter and Ḥokhma of the level below as a result of the second constriction. The desire for the light of Ḥokhma in Keter and Ḥokhma of that lower level leads to a process in which the phase of maturity is initiated and Bina, Tiferet and Malkhut can return to their original, higher level. As this section explains, the Keter and Ḥokhma of the level below ascend with the Bina, Tiferet and Malkhut of the level above. This allows Ze'er Anpin to participate in the fusion through collision of the partzuf above Yisrael Sabba and Tevuna (as explained in section 65b).

In other words, the lower partzuf reaches up, yearning for connection, while the higher partzuf extends down. This interplay, this connection, is essential for the new partzuf to come into being. It is, consequently, both are necessary for the emergence of a lower partzuf.

It's a beautiful reminder that spiritual growth isn't just about passively receiving. It's about active yearning, a reaching out, a willingness to engage in the cosmic dance. And sometimes, that dance involves a collision. What new realities might be waiting to emerge in your own life, if you allow yourself to collide with the divine light?