We're going to be looking at the partzufim (divine countenances or configurations) called Atik, MaH and BaN, as well as Zeir and Nukva.
Now, in the realm of Zeir and Nukva, which represent a more... human-relatable aspect of the divine, a "back-to-back" positioning is seen as a problem. Why? Because it signifies a separation, an inability to connect and couple. They need to turn face-to-face to achieve union. This idea is all over the Kabbalistic texts.
But here's where it gets interesting. When we ascend to the realm of Atik, things shift. We learn that the face of MaH is to the front of Atik while the face of BaN is behind. At first glance, this might seem similar to the "back-to-back" issue we just discussed. Is this a deficiency? Is there a problem here?
According to Kalach Pitchei Chokhmah, the answer is a resounding no! The relationship between male and female aspects in Atik is fundamentally different. In Zeir and Nukva, the "back" needs protection from the kelipot (קליפות), the "husks" or negative forces. That’s why the back is concealed, resulting in that “back-to-back” state.
However, in Atik, something remarkable happens: the concept of a "backpart" effectively ceases to exist. How is this possible? Because of the overwhelming power of the "face." The face – the divine presence – is so strong that it absorbs and nullifies any potential negativity or vulnerability that might otherwise be associated with a "back."
Think of it like this: imagine a light so bright that it casts no shadows. In the realm of Atik, the divine light is so intense that it eliminates any potential for darkness or separation. There is no back revealed.
So, what does this all mean? It suggests that as we ascend in spiritual understanding, what appears as a limitation at one level can be transcended at a higher level. The "face" of the divine, in its purest and most potent form, overcomes all obstacles. It's a powerful reminder that our perceptions of deficiency can be transformed by the illuminating force of the divine presence.