Jewish mystical tradition offers a fascinating perspective on that, suggesting that the very flow of divine light and energy is intimately connected to us, down here in the "lower world."
The text Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah, a fountain of wisdom, delves into these intricate connections. It speaks of the "Six Directions" – think of them as the facets of divine expression – and how, at a certain point, they weren't oriented towards Malchut (מלכות), which means "Kingdom." In Kabbalah, Malchut represents the realm of manifestation, the physical world, and also, crucially, the Assembly of Israel. Now, that phrase, "Assembly of Israel," is a mystical term referring to the collective soul of the Jewish people, understood as a vessel to receive and channel divine light.
So, what does it mean that the Six Directions weren't turned towards Malchut? It suggests a disconnect, a blockage in the flow. According to Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah, everything is ultimately directed toward the lower world, specifically toward Israel in the mystery of the Assembly. This idea is echoed in the verse, "God will rejoice in His works" (Psalms 104:31). But why would God rejoice specifically in His works?
The text suggests that the "arousal and flashing of the lights" – the very dynamism of creation – depends on us, the creations in the lower world. Think about that for a moment. The purpose of our actions, our service, isn't just about personal piety. It's about impacting the entire cosmic structure! It creates a link between the divine lights and the Assembly of Israel.
As long as the Assembly of Israel wasn't "in a state of repair," or ready for the supernal lights, all the gates were closed, we're told. But when she is ready, they immediately open. The stronger the attachment of the lights to her, the wider open the gates become. It's a beautiful image, isn't it? Like a flower opening to the sun.
So, who holds the key to these gates? The text introduces us to Supreme undefined (אימא עילאה, Imma Ila’ah). Imma means "mother," and in Kabbalah, the Supernal Mother represents the divine feminine principle of understanding and nurturing. It's Imma who closes or opens the gates, depending on how ready the Nukva (נוקבא) is for Zeir Anpin (זעיר אנפין). Okay, more Kabbalistic terms – bear with me! The Nukva is, in this context, a representation of Malchut, the feminine aspect of the divine that receives. Zeir Anpin, literally "Small Face," represents the masculine aspect of the divine that gives. In short, it's all about the readiness of the feminine to receive from the masculine.
When the Nukva wasn't prepared for the Six Directions, everything went to ruin, and the vessels broke. A powerful image of disharmony and disruption.
But what does this mean for us, today? Perhaps it's a reminder that our actions, our intentions, our collective state of being, have a profound impact on the flow of divine energy in the world. When we strive for repair, for connection, for unity, we open the gates, allowing the light to shine through. And when we are not ready? The flow is constricted. The vessels break. It’s a potent reminder of the power – and responsibility – we each hold in shaping the very fabric of reality.