The text argues that the true nature of God's governance is so exalted, so far beyond us, that we can only perceive the most superficial level. Think of it like this: imagine trying to understand the ocean by only looking at the waves crashing on the shore. You might get a sense of its power, its vastness, but you'd miss the intricate ecosystems, the hidden depths, the currents that shape the world.
This "external level," as the text calls it, still contains the complete picture, the entire cycle of governance from beginning to end, encompassing all the worlds we'll be discussing. But it’s just the surface. It's a complete, albeit simplified, representation.
One key principle to remember, Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah emphasizes, is that everything is done in accordance with its place. What does that mean, exactly? Well, it uses a fascinating analogy: the soul and the face. What we see of the soul through the face – its expressions, its subtle movements – is ordered in a way that’s suited for visibility. It's a kind of translation, a way for the invisible to become, at least partially, visible. Similarly, what is revealed through the "fissures" made by the soul – moments of vulnerability, glimpses of inner turmoil – are arranged in an order suited to that revelation. It's all tailored to the context, to the receiver.
This brings us to a crucial point: the creatures in the lower realms – that's us, folks – can only apprehend the outermost aspect of the measure laid down for the government of the worlds. We only see the surface of things. Is what we see untrue? Not at all! The text insists that what we perceive is the truth of the matter, according to the way it exists in depth. It's not a lie, but it's also not the whole story.
The kicker? Our intellect, our sechel, is simply inadequate to grasp the entire matter in its true inner essence and depth. We can't encompass all that exists "there," in that realm of ultimate truth. Our minds are limited. So, what are we to do? Give up?
Absolutely not. Instead, Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah offers a comforting thought: we were given a complete and sufficient picture to enable us to understand the matter to the extent to which we are able to receive. It's like being given a map – it might not show every single tree or pebble, but it gives you enough information to navigate the terrain. We are given what we need, even if it is not everything.
So, the next time you feel frustrated by the limits of your understanding, remember this teaching. Remember that you're seeing a true, albeit partial, picture. And perhaps, just perhaps, that's enough to guide you on your journey. Maybe the point isn't to know everything, but to appreciate the glimpse we've been given, and to strive to understand it as deeply as we can.