It’s an image of a God who is responsive, moved by our struggles, and ready to shift from judgment to mercy.
Let's delve into a passage from the Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei_Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">Tikkunei Zohar, specifically Tikkunei Zohar 67, a section brimming with esoteric wisdom. It all hinges on a verse from the Song of Songs (7:2): "How beautiful are your steps in shoes..." Seems a bit odd at first, right? What do shoes have to do with anything?
Here, "steps" are interpreted as acts of prayer. Specifically, the prayers offered during Rosh Hashanah, the New Year, the Day of Judgement. The Tikkunei Zohar tells us that when the Jewish people stand in prayer on this solemn day, something extraordinary happens. Because of their heartfelt devotion, the Kadosh Baruch Hu, the Blessed Holy One, rises from the 'Throne of Judgement' and ascends to sit upon the 'Throne of Mercy'.
Pause and really consider that. God, in response to our prayers, shifts from a stance of judgment to one of mercy. It's a powerful idea. Doesn’t it make you wonder about the power of collective prayer?
This concept is also echoed in Pesiqta d-Rav Kahana (Pisqa 23, Ot 3), which reinforces the notion of God's compassion being stirred by our sincere supplications. It's as if our prayers act as a catalyst, prompting a divine transformation.
But there's more. The Tikkunei Zohar doesn't stop there. It connects this idea to the experience of exile, the galut. When the Jewish people stand with the Shekhinah – the divine feminine presence – in exile, enduring trials and tribulations, their suffering becomes a poignant cry to the heavens. We proclaim, as Psalm 44:23 says, "Because for Your sake we are killed all the day, we are considered as sheep for the slaughter."
This isn't just about physical suffering; it’s about the spiritual pain of feeling distant from God, of witnessing injustice, of yearning for redemption. According to various sources, this collective suffering also moves the divine.
It's a reciprocal relationship, isn't it? Our actions, our prayers, our suffering, all have a profound impact on the divine realm. We’re not just passive recipients of God's will; we are active participants in shaping the divine response.
So, the next time you find yourself in prayer, remember this image. Remember the Kadosh Baruch Hu rising from the Throne of Judgement. Remember the Shekhinah in exile. Remember that your voice, your tears, your devotion – they matter. They have the power to move the very heavens. What a hopeful idea that is.