It talks about the mystical forces at play when we connect with the divine. Specifically, it speaks of the ḥashmal (חשמל), often translated as “electrum,” but in this context referring to angelic beings.
Now, these aren't your fluffy, winged angels. The Tikkunei Zohar describes them as "angelic-beasts of fire," beings of immense energy. What's really intriguing is their behavior: sometimes they're ḥash (חש), "silent," and sometimes they're mal (מל), "speaking." Think of it as a cosmic ebb and flow. When are they silent, and when do they speak? According to the Tikkunei Zohar, it depends on our posture during prayer. When we sit in prayer, they speak; when we stand, they are silent. A fascinating image, isn't it?
But the Tikkunei Zohar doesn't stop there. It delves into the power of elevating the Shekhinah (שכינה) – the divine feminine presence – through our thoughts, prayers, and actions.
Imagine this: every time you perform a mitzvah, a good deed, or pour your heart out in prayer, you’re essentially knocking on the door of the King's chamber. Whether you're a prophet, a seer, a sage, a righteous person, or simply a pious soul, the moment you call at the gate, something extraordinary happens.
If the Shekhinah has ascended there – if your intention is pure and your connection is strong – then YHVH, the ineffable name of God, answers immediately.
No waiting, no intermediaries. God Himself opens the door.
Why? Because of the immense affection and love He has for Her, the Shekhinah. The text beautifully compares it to a groom's love for his bride. This is a powerful image of intimacy, immediacy, and divine responsiveness. God doesn’t delegate; He acts out of love.
This idea, of God responding directly to our heartfelt intentions, is incredibly powerful. It suggests that our actions, our prayers, our very thoughts, have a tangible impact on the divine realm.
So, the next time you find yourself in prayer, remember the ḥashmal, the angelic-beasts of fire, and the image of knocking on the King's chamber. Remember the intimate and immediate connection that's possible. It might just change the way you approach your relationship with the divine.