The Tikkunei Zohar, a core text of Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), offers a powerful image of divine protection. It speaks of the Shekhinah – the feminine aspect of God, the divine presence – spreading Her wings over Israel, shielding us. It evokes the verse from Deuteronomy (32:11): "…He takes them, He lifts them up with His pinion." Doesn’t that just bring a sense of comfort? A feeling of being held, safe?
And it reminds us of another powerful image, the one we find established in Exodus (19:4): "…and I lifted you on eagles’ wings…" Think about the strength and grace of an eagle. What a promise!
But here's where things get interesting, and a little… challenging. The Tikkunei Zohar doesn't just offer solace; it also demands introspection. It quotes the verse from Jonah (1:6): "Get up! Call to your God!" This isn’t just any call; it’s a call to the Higher Shekhinah, a call for repentance, a path back to the Holy One.
Why this urgency? Because, the text warns, an "evil maidservant" might be ruling over us. Oof. What does that mean?
This "evil maidservant," we learn, is the "putrid drop." A pretty harsh term, right? This "putrid drop" symbolizes the source of sin, the negative impulses that pull us away from our best selves. About her, it is stated in Job (1:7): "And Y”Y said to the Satan: ‘From whence do you come?’" The implication is that all sins originate from the influence of this "putrid drop."
This idea isn’t new. Mishnah Avot (3:1) echoes this sentiment in relation to the wicked: "From whence did you come? From a putrid drop.” It’s a stark reminder of our human fallibility, the ever-present potential for darkness within us.
So, what are we supposed to do with this? Are we doomed? Absolutely not. The Tikkunei Zohar isn't just about pointing out the problem; it's about offering a solution. By recognizing the influence of this "putrid drop," by turning towards repentance and calling upon the Higher Shekhinah, we can break free from its grasp. We can return to our Master, to the blessed Holy One.
It’s a call to action, a reminder that we have the power to choose. We can succumb to the "evil maidservant" and her "putrid drop," or we can rise above it, seeking the shelter of the Shekhinah's wings and embracing the path of repentance. Which will you choose?