Jewish mystical tradition, particularly the Kabbalah, wrestles with this very idea. It delves into the nature of light, darkness, and how we perceive the Divine.

The text we're exploring, from Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah (a Kabbalistic work whose title can be translated as "One Hundred and Thirty Eight Openings of Wisdom"), touches on this directly. It tells us that something "does not radiate." What's that about?

The key here is understanding that this darkness isn't a defect. It's inherent. It's the way things are. The text describes how we can view light in two ways: either directly at its source, or indirectly, where the radiation is less complete. Think of it like staring at the sun versus seeing its reflection in a mirror. The source is blinding, overwhelming. The reflection? Manageable, but a diminished version of the original.

This idea of a "face" is crucial. The text says the place where the light is diminished "is not recognizable as a 'face' directed towards the onlooker." In Kabbalah, the "face" (panim) represents direct engagement and revelation. When something doesn't show its face, it means the light is obscured, veiled.

Now, the passage goes on to say that this obscured light "is also not seen in Atik." Who or what is Atik? In Kabbalistic terminology, Atik Yomin, often shortened to Atik, refers to the most ancient and concealed aspect of the Divine, the "Ancient of Days." So, what does it mean that this obscured light isn’t seen in Atik?

The text explains that this absence indicates that there is no Judgment there at all. Judgment, in this context, refers to the Divine attribute of strictness and limitation. The idea of the "backpart" (achorayim in Hebrew) comes into play here. Achorayim suggests a turning away, a removal. It implies that the lights are not being directed downwards, towards the lower realms.

Think of it as a faucet turned off. The water, representing Divine blessing and emanation, isn't flowing.

But Atik, the text emphasizes, is different. It's "the root of the complete and perfect governmental order." This suggests that Atik is the foundation upon which all of creation is built and sustained. And it's characterized by "complete mercy, showing the face of sweetness on every side."

In other words, Atik is pure, unadulterated benevolence. There's no obstruction, no turning away. It's all face, all direct connection. As such, it contrasts starkly with the idea of the "backpart" and the obscured light.

So, what does this all mean for us? Perhaps it's a reminder that the Divine manifests in different ways. Sometimes we experience the direct, radiant light of mercy and grace. Other times, we encounter darkness and obscuration. But even in those moments of perceived darkness, the potential for connection, for "face-to-face" encounter, remains. The key, perhaps, is to recognize that even the hidden aspects of reality are part of a larger, more complete picture – a picture rooted in the boundless mercy of Atik. Even when we don't see the light, it doesn't mean it isn't there. It simply means we need to look a little closer, and perhaps from a different angle.