Atziluth | אצילות

The realm of Atziluth, with a focus on the names of G'd, is an intrinsic element in the tradition handed down from the prophets of Israel and is considered a foundational pillar of the Qabalah. It's worth emphasizing that the importance of the names of G'd is deeply embedded in biblical tradition, where these divine appellations serve as both the fulcrum for meditative practices and the bedrock of magical rituals.

The significance of these names is so profound that it has been suggested that the entire Torah, an extensive text comprising over six hundred thousand letters, is essentially one monumental name of G'd. In the execution of any esoteric practice, no entity or force is ever summoned without first tethering it to the corresponding divine name - the name that presides over the Sefira to which that entity or force is associated. The guiding principle in all spiritual undertakings is to elevate matters to their highest spiritual echelon, and this pinnacle, the spiritual core of the Sefira, is epitomized by the divine name in its most exalted form.

Consequently, the names of G'd serve as the primary conduits of connectivity and channeling with the Infinite Light. It's important to clarify that these names are not necessarily semantically meaningful words, nor are they 'names' in the conventional sense. Rather, a name of G'd is a direct emanation of divinity; it carries intrinsic sanctity.

We can approach these names from various perspectives. For instance, they can be viewed as metaphysical formulae, with the individual letters functioning as operators within complex equations. Alternatively, they can be treated as mystical symbols or as switches in an intricate spiritual circuit.

Given that the deity is in essence infinite and beyond representation, our approximation to the divine through its names must necessarily also be infinite. Nonetheless, there are certain names that have been canonized by tradition and consecrated through centuries of practice. It is these ten names, one corresponding to each Sefira, that we shall explore in this discourse. However, it is critical to underscore that this in no way implies that G'd is restricted to these ten names or that our approximation to the divine is limited to these ten conduits alone.


Kether of Atziluth: א’’ה’’י’’ה, Ekyeh.

Kether of Atziluth is represented by the Hebrew term "א’’ה’’י’’ה" or "Ekyeh". This divine name first makes its appearance in the book of Exodus, Chapter 3, in an exchange between G'd and Moses. When Moses asks G'd for His name, the response he receives is "Ekyeh Asher Ekyeh", translated as "I am who I am".

The profound meaning embedded within this name is that it embodies the true absolute existence, a stark contrast to the contingent relative existence that characterizes the physical manifestation: "I am". It signifies the supreme identity, perched at the apex of the pillar of consciousness: "I am", embodying the unique and solitary entity: "I am".

However, the conventional English translation as "I am" is not entirely accurate. In Hebrew, the term "Ekyeh" is a verb tense that corresponds to the future rather than the present. Biblical Hebrew acknowledges two primary verb tenses: the perfect tense and the imperfect tense. The former signifies an action already completed, analogous to our conception of the past. The latter, on the other hand, denotes an action that is incomplete or ongoing, which we associate with the future. "Ekyeh" aligns with the imperfect tense, and would more accurately translate to "I will be the one who will be". This phrase exudes an aura of aspiration, the will to exist, the desire to reveal oneself and to be acknowledged.

Additionally, "Ekyeh" signifies the divine breath, the life force, the spirit of life itself. When uttered, the pronunciation of this divine name mirrors an exhalation of breath, hence denoting the supreme spirit.

The full name "Ekyeh Asher Ekyeh" is interpreted not only as representing Kether, but also as a reflection of the three supreme sefirot. As such, it can be viewed as not just the symbol of Kether, but the emblem of the holy triad or the circular realm drawn from Kether, with a radius extending to Daat, embodying the realm of Atziluth.

The first "Ekyeh" encapsulates Kether in its purest form, as the ultimate existence. The second "Ekyeh" symbolizes Binah, which is the ultimate existence reflected within the cosmic sea, the source of life itself. "Asher" is linked to Chokmah; while the term literally translates to the pronoun "that" in Hebrew, it also carries connotations of delight, joy, and fulfillment. It is a representation of the intrinsic delight, joy, and fulfillment embedded within the divine light. The corresponding state of consciousness is one of supreme fulfillment, tranquility, joy, and delight inherent in the divine light.

"Ekyeh" is more than just a name to be pronounced; it is a divine breath to be inhaled and exhaled. Each breath of divinity is akin to the ebb and flow of one's breath, mirroring the projection and reabsorption of worlds. Being and becoming merge in the emblem of infinity: as G'd exhales, He projects the breath of life, thereby creating all worlds. When He inhales, He absorbs these worlds back into Himself, into His very being, manifesting in endless cycles and loops of divine existence.


Chokmah of Atziluth: יה, Yah.



Chokmah of Atziluth is symbolized by the term "יה" or "Yah." The names of G'd serve multiple purposes, ranging from meditation aids to potent mantras, considered as the most compelling mantras in existence.

As previously discussed, the name "Yah" is associated with the first half of the tetragrammaton, or the four-letter name of G'd. However, simultaneously, it also represents the latter half, and thus the immanent portion, of the preceding name "Ekyeh."

Yah is identified as the name of wisdom, the source of the uncreated and ineffable wisdom from which creation unfolds. It symbolizes G'd as the father, the positive or masculine principle that is formless as form begins to materialize only in Binah. As such, it is inherently inexpressible because all expression is essentially a form.

Yah signifies the inception, the "Reshit", the genesis of all beginnings. The very first word of the Torah, "Bereshit," can be interpreted to mean "in wisdom" or "through wisdom." The unfathomable mystery that is Kether gave rise to Elokim, represented by Binah. Following this, the heavens, ranging from Chesed to Yesod, and the earth, signified by Malkuth, were created.

Yah is synonymous with transcendence, and this transcendent quality embodies a liberating, saving power that is omnipotent, invincible, and overcoming. This power has the capacity to obliterate everything that needs transformation. Though it appears sparingly within the Pentateuch, one example of its occurrence is in Exodus 15:2. This verse features in the song that the Israelites sing after crossing the Red Sea, underscoring the liberating essence of the name: "Yah is my strength and might; it has become my salvation."

It is important to clarify that the transcendence of Chokmah relative to Binah should not be seen as a negation of form. The father and mother principles are eternally conjoined, which is why the name "Yah" encompasses both polarities: the unity of enlightenment and love.

In Hebrew, the term for male is "ish" (יאש) and for female is "isha" (אשה). Both terms comprise the word for fire (אש) and the polarity letters of the divine name, with י corresponding to the male and ה to the female. The interaction between man and woman, between the polarities, contains the name of G'd, manifesting as an expression of the divine name. If the letters י and ה are removed, only "esh" (אש), the consuming fire, remains. This indicates that the essence of both the male and female is bound by the divine name, and in their separation, a consuming fire is left, symbolizing the fiery passion and transformative energy inherent in existence.


Binah of Atziluth: הוי"ה with the vocalization of א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם (Elokim), i.e. Yehovi.

Binah of Atziluth is represented by the term "הוי"ה," vocalized as "א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם" (Elokim), or "Yehovi." This term embodies the full name of the divine, featuring both polarities, male and female, brought to the forefront. In truth, these two aspects are represented in the letters of the previous name, יה, but now they are further elaborated or developed. Prior to this, they existed in a more potential or latent state, inherently united yet unconscious of their distinction.

The name "Elokim" recurs in the three sefirot of the left pillar. Generally, these names continue to appear in various locations, contributing new concepts at each instance. We must remember that we are discussing the various manifestations of a singular reality. We do not have ten distinct entities, but a sole reality that expresses itself in numerous forms.

The name "HaVaYaH," or הוי"ה, stems from the root of the verb "to be." In fact, it corresponds to the present tense of the verb "to be," which is "hove" (הוה) in Hebrew, with the prefix of the third person future, "yehiye" (יהיה). It is a constructed noun, and it does not exist as an ordinary word. It can be interpreted as a noun that represents being (in the present), but as an active being, indicating an unfinished action.

It is often translated as "The Eternal One," as G'd is also referred to as "He who was, He who is, and He who will be." These words all revolve around the same linguistic root: היה הוה ויהיה, further indicating His nature as one who transcends time and defines the dimensions of time. It signifies active being, not at the level of Kether, which is the totality of reality, but as an entity directly involved in creation.

To fully comprehend the name, consider it as "the lens through which the light of infinity, Ein Sof Ohr, is focused." It thus represents in creation the infinite light, encompassing everything. In the full name, we perceive HaVaYaH as the aspect of light and Elokim as the vessel aspect, the container of light. Elokim is the manifestation of G'd that is featured in the first chapter of Genesis. It is the aspect that creates, performing the concrete act of creation. Consequently, we can comprehend the name as the infinite light filling the vessel of creation to overflowing.

Sometimes, it is stated that the name of G'd in Binah is solely Elokim when the aspect of form is being emphasized, that is, considering Binah as the mother of form. In such cases, Elokim signifies nature in its most exalted form, not just the organic nature of the earth, but the overarching nature, the soul of creation. The name in Binah is thus the four-letter name with the vowels of Elokim, appearing in this manner in several places in the Bible. The commonly written form, read as Jehovah (and is otherwise an interpretation), appears in some instances with the vowels of the name Elokim and should be read as "Yehovi."

The name of G'd that emerges in the first chapter of Genesis is Elokim because this chapter narrates the creation of the natural order. This name appears 32 times throughout the entire chapter, configuring the whole tree of life through the 32 paths. In the second chapter, the name of G'd is "HaVaYaH Elokim." This chapter recounts the second creation story: the creation of the human vessel and the breathing of the breath of life into it; additionally, HaVaYaH plants in the garden of Eden the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

By including the name הוי"ה, which signifies the aspect of light, with Elokim, the vessel aspect, the tree of life is being introduced into the natural order. Remember, the four-letter name encompasses the entire tree, symbolizing the supernatural order within the natural order. From the perspective of form, or the natural order, Binah is the law. Once inside the law, change can only come from Chokmah. The natural order is invariably governed by the law of necessity, the law of cause and effect. Conversely, the supernatural order is above it all, transcending but not negating it. The integration of the supernatural order introduces an extra dimension.

Therefore, it's crucial to understand this name as a feminine unity, housing within itself a multitude of masculine active causes. It's a feminine continuity containing a variety of active causes, symbolized by the lower masculine sephirot. It's the mother of form, enveloping within itself the sefirot below the abyss, which are the active causes of creation.

It's not a coincidence that in the second creation of humankind, in chapter two of Genesis, this complete name, "HaVaYaH Elokim," appears, as it represents the archetype of the reunited polarities in a state of completeness and bliss, resonating with the original, primordial Eden.


Chesed of Atziluth: א’’ל, Kel.

Chesed of Atziluth is symbolized by " א’’ל," or "Kel," a term that transcends linguistic boundaries to denote "G'd" across various cultures in the Middle Eastern region. This name is recognized by the Hebrews (Kel), the Sumerians and Babylonians (Ilu), the Arabs (Allah), the Canaanites, and Phoenicians (Kel), among others. Each of these cultures, despite their differing languages and traditions, echo the same core understanding of "Kel" as the divine.

The name "Kel" signifies divine mercy, the pulsating divine energy at work, the embodiment of good, the grace of G'd, the embodiment and experience of divine love, the gifting of energy, and submission to the divine will. It is the name that captures the essence of love and generosity that emanates from the divine.

The term "Islam," which translates to "submission to the divine will," offers a similar representation, and thus, the name of G'd in this sefira (in the Arabic language) is considered the supreme name of G'd, a revered symbol in the Muslim faith. Whenever we address G'd through the archetype of a kind, merciful king, the granter of mercies, the forgiving deity, we invoke in one form or another, the energetic manifestation of this divine name.

Composed of two letters, Aleph, א, symbolizing unity, and Lamed, ל, hieroglyphically depicted as the wing of an outstretched bird, signifying "expansive movement," the name "Kel" draws the essence of divine energy in action. This divine energy, when experienced at a personal level, is referred to as the grace of G'd. Being in a state of grace is that profound connection with the divine, a fulfillment of the soul's yearning. It is the intimate experience of divine love, to feel loved by G'd in the first place and subsequently become a conduit for the divine energy of benevolence. This state also includes a surrender to the divine will, stemming from the confidence that all life events are willed by G'd for our spiritual good.

Under the mantle of the name "Kel," G'd presents himself as a kind father and a merciful king: the source of mercies, the one who pardons and clears our transgressions. This manifestation prevents the severity and strict application of the law from prevailing, precisely because from the pillar of strength, he can offer that additional measure of energy that breaks the chains of necessity and unravels the knots of inevitability.

Chesed plays a crucial role as the representative of Chokmah in the realms of form, parallel to how Gevurah stands for Binah. Through the connection between Chokmah and Chesed, the divine blessing that bestows grace descends. In relation to creation, the nature of the deity is to give, and for the creature, the recognition and voluntary acceptance of that divine generosity is in itself a form of returning what has been received. It is the only truly valid return for the deity, from whom we cannot add to or take away anything.

In the divine realm, there is no transgression that cannot be forgiven, no mistake that cannot be rectified. As the highest sefira below the abyss, Chesed governs Yetzirah with a law of kindness. Especially those who feel lost and desperate should openly appeal to the love of the name "Kel," and rest assured that they will receive a response in one form or another. It's a reminder that one can always reach the center from any point in the circumference. It encapsulates the limitless potential for redemption and renewal through divine love and mercy.


Gevurah of Atziluth: א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם , Elokim.

Gevurah of Atziluth is embodied by "א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם," or "Elokim," a divine name that carries within it dual representations of Gevurah's nature: strength and severity. Elokim presents an aspect of the divine that does not shy away from judgment, rewarding each individual based on their merit with unwavering justice.

This aspect of G'd differs fundamentally from Chesed, the attribute associated with divine mercy. Chesed, situated beyond the concept of individual merit, resides in grace and unconditional giving. In contrast, Elokim's essence dwells in the realm of fair exchange - delivering what is due, providing justice where it is warranted. It's a realm where divine generosity does not recede but is distributed in accordance with the merit of the receiver.

Elokim extends beyond the role of a fair judge, embodying the concept of the G'd of power, the G'd of battles. It represents an unstoppable force, an indestructible power that cannot be contested. It's a facet of the divine that resonates with unwavering authority and might.

While Binah is seen as the mother of form, its realm is beyond the form it engenders, observing it from an elevated perspective. In contrast, Gevurah plays the role of an active supervisor, instigating the mechanisms of adjustment, correction, and even destruction when necessary. The divine name Elokim also encompasses the destructive facet of divinity, invoking the elimination of elements that no longer serve an evolutionary purpose, elements that have become obstacles rather than aids. In this light, Elokim facilitates the cycle of life and death, paving the way for renewal and progress.

Elokim is also the facet of the divine that tests our resilience and strength, pushing us to transcend our limitations, to unfurl the full potential that lies dormant within us. It provokes challenges that compel us to break our self-imposed boundaries, fostering growth and evolution.

Gevurah's position in the feminine pillar signifies its role as the vessel, the receptor, and the contracting force. This position is deemed passive or negative, and by extension, feminine. However, these designations bear no negative connotations, nor are they confined to the gender binaries of men and women.

Every human, regardless of gender, encompasses within themselves the two polarities of masculine and feminine. These polarities aren't fixed; they shift and reverse across different planes. A person might be active on the physical plane and passive on the astral plane, highlighting the fluidity and adaptability of these energies.

The concepts of masculine and feminine are not dichotomous but rather form a continuum. They don't represent absolute qualities, and there's room for a spectrum of intermediate positions. Both these forces are necessary to maintain balance, and their interplay is vital to the creation and maintenance of the universe.


Tiferet of Atziluth: הוי"ה, HaVaYaH.

Tiferet of Atziluth carries the four-letter name, הוי"ה, or HaVaYaH, a divine name deeply entwined with the essence of all the spheres within the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. Tiferet, often described as beauty or balance, holds a unique and central position within this structure. If we were to pinpoint a single sefira that encapsulates the entirety of the Tree of Life, it would undeniably be Tiferet. It stands as the equilibrium that harmoniously unites both the transcendent and immanent aspects of divinity, establishing a connection with all sefirot, save for Malkuth, the sphere of the Kingdom, representing the physical world.

Shem HaMeforash, the ineffable name of G'd, finds itself embodied in Tiferet. This central sefira receives and radiates divine energy to all the other spheres, serving as a conduit for the flow of divine essence. The four-letter name, given its central positioning, possesses the extraordinary ability to assume any function. Its centrality allows it to be adorned with all divine names and attributes, rendering it the name of names, the ultimate embodiment of the divine essence.

HaVaYaH in Tiferet illuminates the concept of a personal G'd, a divine presence manifesting itself at the core of one's self. It implies that when we delve deep within ourselves, when we journey to the very center of our being and our consciousness, we encounter divinity ensconced there. This divine presence is not an external entity, but the very essence of our being, a divine spark radiating from within us.

HaVaYaH, in its manifestation as Tiferet, is the being of all beings, the divine presence anchored at the heart of existence. It symbolizes G'd's identity as the "I AM," the essence of being itself, the omniscient observer presiding over the grand theater of existence. Like the sun that illuminates our world, HaVaYaH in Tiferet sheds light on our consciousness, casting away the shadows of ignorance and revealing the true nature of our existence.

Tiferet is thus a reflection of the divine within us, a testament to the ineffable connection between the human and the divine, between the created and the creator. This union transcends the physical realm, bridging the gap between the finite and the infinite. HaVaYaH, as represented in Tiferet, is not merely a symbol of divine power and authority, but a reminder of our intrinsic link to the divine, a beacon guiding us on our journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.


Netzach of Atzliluth: הוי"ה צ’’ב’’א’’ו’’ת, HaVaYaH Tzevakot.

Netzach of Atziluth is represented by the divine name הוי"ה צ’’ב’’א’’ו’’ת , or HaVaYaH Tzevakot, offering a nuanced interpretation of the multitudinous aspects of divinity. This name evokes the image of the divine as an omnipotent commander of celestial armies, with "Tzevakot" denoting the plurality and variety of the manifested powers that exist throughout the cosmos.

In the sefira of Hod, as we shall see, the divine name takes the form of Elokim Tzevakot, depicting a different facet of the divine that governs the multitudes, the cosmic forces that influence and shape the universe. But here, in Netzach, the divine name is HaVaYaH Tzevakot, combining the four-letter name, symbolizing the totality of divinity, with Tzevakot. This juxtaposition illuminates the overarching governance of the divine over the multiplicity of powers and energies manifested across the cosmos, denoting the absolute authority of the divine.

HaVaYaH Tzevakot, thus, represents the singular omnipotent force operating behind all other powers. It depicts divinity as the source of a multitude of active energies, painting a picture of the universe where the divine permeates every corner, imbuing it with its essence. It is the divine, governing, guiding, and exerting influence over the multitude of celestial bodies, energies, and forces that form the universe.

In the realm of Netzach, this name aligns with the principle of triumph and endurance. Netzach is analogous to a white light ray diffracting into the seven colors of the rainbow. The unity and harmony seen in Tiferet, despite its intrinsic multiplicity, is diffracted in Netzach, allowing each essence to seek its own self-expression, its own individuality. Each ray of light, each individual essence, manifests its unique color, thereby creating a multicolored tapestry of divine expression.

This imagery underscores the interpretation of HaVaYaH Tzevakot as the seal of G'd upon creation. It serves to affirm the divine name as the supreme archetype of all beings, the ultimate exemplar of existence. Just as the spectrum of light comprises different colors, each with its unique wavelength and frequency, the cosmos too is filled with diverse manifestations of divine energy, each expressing its individuality yet fundamentally united under the divine name of HaVaYaH Tzevakot. This name, therefore, carries the understanding that every form and force in the universe, no matter how diverse or disparate, stems from the singular essence of the divine, thus reflecting the eternal triumph of the divine in all creation.


Hod of Atziluth: א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם צ’’ב’’א’’ו’’ת, Elokim Tzevakot.

Hod of Atziluth is represented by the divine name א’’ל’’ה’’י’’ם צ’’ב’’א’’ו’’ת, or Elokim Tzevakot, which unveils the complex duality of male and female energies operating at the level of cosmic powers, through the names HaVaYaH and Elokim. This duality, a key theme in many spiritual traditions, echoes the intricate interplay of forces that bring about the manifestations of the universe.

The concept of HaVaYaH Tzevakot and Elokim Tzevakot can be visualized in the metaphor of the sun and its rays. If HaVaYaH Tzevakot is perceived as the rays of light — individual, yet united emanations — then Elokim Tzevakot is akin to the sun itself, the boundless luminous source from which these rays spring forth. The sun, in its omnipresent brilliance, forms the matrix of all forms, the eternal originator of all that is seen and unseen.

HaVaYaH Tzevakot symbolizes the illuminating force, a beam of divine light that penetrates the consciousness of every being, stirring within them a thirst for spiritual growth and awakening. It's the divine spark that impels every creature towards the exploration and realization of its spiritual archetype, the seed of divinity within itself.

Elokim Tzevakot, on the other hand, denotes the nurturing and sustaining aspect of divinity. It creates the formal conditions necessary for our beings to hold, retain, and utilize the divine light. Like a vessel designed to contain the brilliance of light, Elokim Tzevakot provides the structural capacity that permits us to harness the divine illumination in our existence. It represents the radiant splendor of divine light, manifested in the vast expanse of creation.

In the interplay of these divine names, we witness the complementary polarities of victory and glory. Victory is the triumph of the divine light over the darkness of ignorance, a celebration of the spark of enlightenment that propels every being towards the search for its spiritual essence. Glory, meanwhile, is the resplendent manifestation of the divine light in every form, a testament to the divine's nurturing and sustaining presence that facilitates the spiritual evolution of the universe.

Thus, both names, HaVaYaH Tzevakot and Elokim Tzevakot, while symbolizing different aspects of divinity, are inherently interdependent. Together, they capture the essence of the divine as both the source of spiritual illumination and the sustainer of that illumination in the cosmos.


Yesod of Atziluth: ש’’ד’’י, Shakai.

In Yesod of Atziluth, we encounter the divine name ש’’ד’’י, or Shakai, signifying the living and omnipotent G'd. This divine name carries within it the essence of the vigor of life in all its expressions, a testament to the indomitable potency of existence that defies dissolution or destruction.

Yesod is a sefira positioned in the middle pillar of the Kabbalistic tree of life. It mirrors three critical stages of divine manifestation - the stage of the will to be in Kether symbolized by Eheie, the stage of enlightened consciousness in Tiferet represented by HaVaYaH, and the stage of divine generation or the generative force that we encounter in Yesod represented by Shakai.

Shakai, thus, encompasses these preceding concepts and also establishes a crucial bridge to Malkuth within the middle pillar. This name is representative of the intrinsic divine power that fuels the cycle of life and creation, a force that perpetuates the endless dance of existence.

This divine name, Shakai, was revealed to the patriarchs of the Abrahamic religions - Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In the book of Genesis 17, G'd reveals Himself to Abraham saying, "I am the Shakai; walk in my presence and be perfect. I will establish a covenant..." And later in Exodus 6:2, G'd tells Moses, "To the patriarchs I revealed myself under the name Shakai, but under the name HaVaYaH I did not reveal myself."

The name Shakai holds profound symbolic significance in these texts. It is associated with the blessing of the land, the blessing of the fruits, the blessings bestowed upon the patriarchs, and the promise of multiplication and prosperity: "I will establish a covenant with you and multiply you manyfold." It underscores the divine act of creation and the transmission of life - it is the generative impulse behind the genesis of all beings.

Each divine name in the sefirot carries unique connotations: in Kether, the name of G'd is primarily metaphysical, encapsulating the essence of being, nothingness, and becoming. In Tiferet, the divine name signifies the personal G'd, representing the center of consciousness, the nucleus of being. Finally, in Yesod, the divine name denotes vital energy, the generative force that fuels existence.

However, while each divine name carries distinct facets, they ultimately converge in unity, for they all refer to the one G'd. This G'd is chai, the living G'd. The implication isn't that G'd is only the G'd of life; rather, it suggests that G'd is a living, breathing experience, the animating life force that infuses all worlds and our individual lives with vitality and dynamism.


Malkuth of Atziluth: א’’ד’’נ’’י, Amonai.

Malkuth of Atziluth introduces us to the divine name: א’’ד’’נ’’י, or Amonai. This term derives from "Adon," which translates to "lord," making Amonai the term of respect and deference, "my lord."

In Malkuth, the delineation between G'd and the universe is clear and absolute. Amonai symbolizes divine sovereignty over the entirety of the universe, a concept that presents G'd in the role of a monarch, a ruler whose will shapes the cosmos. This aspect of sovereignty, of kingship, stands as the tangible, definitive culmination of all divine attributes.

Interestingly, the divine name Amonai serves a dual purpose and sets the stage for a dichotomous reality. Upwards from Amonai, we move towards the world of unity, a singular, unified existence. In contrast, below Amonai, we delve into the realm of multiplicity, a world abundant with diversity and manifold expressions. In this aspect, Amonai serves as a frontier, a threshold between these two diverse realms.

G'd, as king and lord, straddles these two contrasting realities. On one side, G'd is transcendent, existing apart from His creation, a sublime entity beyond the grasp of the material world. Yet, on the other side, G'd is immanent, an inseparable part of His creation. This aspect of G'd is often referred to as the Shekhinah or divine presence. It signifies the constant presence of G'd in every corner of creation, a presence so pervasive that it overflows, filling the worlds to their brims.

When it comes to vocalizing the tetragrammaton, HaVaYaH, the vowels of Amonai are employed, leading to the pronunciation "Jehovah." This practice demonstrates the foundational role Amonai plays in our understanding and interaction with the divine. It implies that Amonai is the gateway to all divine attributes and that one must pass through Amonai to reach HaVaYaH. This practice also suggests that the first aspect of G'd that we encounter is His role as the king of creation. Simultaneously, this is the immanent aspect of G'd, the soul of the earth that permeates every facet of our existence.

Therefore, the divine name Amonai serves not only as a term of reverence and sovereignty but also as a key, a unique tool that allows us to unlock the door to a deeper understanding of the divine attributes. It portrays G'd as both the transcendent king of the universe and the immanent life force that breathes life into every particle of creation.

Scroll to Top