Jewish mysticism certainly thinks so.

In fact, the ancient text Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah (which translates to "Key to the Gates of Wisdom") offers a fascinating glimpse into just how that inner spark manifests – how our inner soul interacts with the world, and how its radiance becomes visible.

The text speaks of the neshamah, the inner soul, as something initially hidden, unseen within the body. Think of it as a pilot light, burning steadily but quietly. But it doesn't stay hidden forever. The Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah tells us that the soul eventually makes itself known. How? Through the expression of the face.

That first glimpse, that subtle shift in expression, is described as the "first" or "inner" radiant splendor. It's like the faintest dawn, a hint of the light that's about to break through. The soul, still nestled within, gathers strength. It pushes, it strives, and it eventually breaks through.

And here's where it gets really interesting.

The text speaks of these "four fissures" – openings, pathways – through which the soul's light shines. What are these fissures? Some understand them as the eyes, nostrils, and mouth – the very portals through which we perceive and interact with the world. It’s through these openings that our inner world begins to meet the outer world.

From these openings emerges a "second radiant splendor." This isn't just a faint glow; it's a powerful emanation that stands above the initial, "inner" radiance. Imagine a candle flame, growing brighter and stronger. This second splendor becomes the source of our senses, fueled by the soul's movement within it.

So, why does this radiant splendor exist on the outside? Why does our inner light become visible? Because, according to the Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah, the soul itself broke through to create those openings. It's an active, intentional process. Our soul yearns to connect, to express itself, to share its light with the world.

It’s a powerful image, isn’t it? The soul actively working to reveal itself, to illuminate the world through our very being. It suggests that our expressions, our senses, our interactions are not merely superficial. They are the direct result of our soul's desire to shine.

So, the next time you look in the mirror, consider the radiant splendor that shines through your eyes. Remember the hidden soul within, the spark that yearns to connect. And ask yourself: what kind of light am I choosing to shine?