Ein Sof vs. Ohr Ein Sof

Attribute	Ein Sof	Ohr Ein Sof
Meaning	The Infinite, the limitless, the boundless	The Infinite Light, the emanation of Ein Sof
Nature	Transcendent, beyond comprehension	Immanent, manifesting in the world
Relationship to Creation	Source of all existence, unmanifested	Source of all existence, manifested
Symbolism	Symbolized by a circle, representing infinity	Symbolized by a ray of light, representing divine illumination

Introduction

Ein Sof and Ohr Ein Sof are two important concepts in Kabbalah, the mystical branch of Judaism. While both terms refer to the infinite nature of God, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between Ein Sof and Ohr Ein Sof and how they are understood in Kabbalistic teachings.

Ein Sof

Ein Sof, which translates to "without end" or "infinite," is the concept of God's infinite and boundless nature. It represents the unknowable and transcendent aspect of God that exists beyond human comprehension. Ein Sof is often described as the source of all creation, the ultimate reality from which everything emanates.

In Kabbalistic thought, Ein Sof is seen as the underlying essence of all existence, the unchanging and eternal force that sustains the universe. It is the infinite light that fills all of creation, yet remains hidden and inaccessible to human understanding. Ein Sof is beyond time, space, and form, existing in a state of pure potentiality.

One of the key attributes of Ein Sof is its incomprehensibility. It is beyond the grasp of human intellect, existing in a realm that is beyond words and concepts. Ein Sof is the ultimate mystery, the unknowable essence that lies at the heart of all existence.

Another important aspect of Ein Sof is its unity. It is the source of all diversity and multiplicity in the universe, yet it remains fundamentally one and indivisible. Ein Sof is the unifying force that connects all things, the underlying unity that binds together the fabric of reality.

Ein Sof is often depicted as a limitless ocean of light, a vast and infinite expanse that contains within it the potential for all creation. It is the primal source from which all things emerge, the eternal wellspring of life and energy that sustains the universe.

Ohr Ein Sof

Ohr Ein Sof, which translates to "the light of the infinite," is the manifestation of Ein Sof in the created world. It is the divine light that emanates from the infinite source of Ein Sof and fills all of creation with its radiance. Ohr Ein Sof is the bridge between the transcendent realm of Ein Sof and the immanent world of physical reality.

In Kabbalistic teachings, Ohr Ein Sof is seen as the creative force that brings the universe into being. It is the divine energy that animates all of existence, giving form and structure to the world. Ohr Ein Sof is the light that shines through all things, illuminating the hidden aspects of reality and revealing the divine presence within creation.

One of the key attributes of Ohr Ein Sof is its transformative power. It has the ability to elevate and purify the soul, bringing spiritual enlightenment and awakening to those who are receptive to its influence. Ohr Ein Sof is the light that guides the seeker on the path to divine union and ultimate truth.

Another important aspect of Ohr Ein Sof is its accessibility. Unlike Ein Sof, which is beyond human comprehension, Ohr Ein Sof can be experienced and accessed by those who are attuned to its presence. It is the divine light that shines within the heart of every individual, illuminating the path to spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Ohr Ein Sof is often depicted as a radiant and luminous energy that permeates all of creation. It is the divine light that shines through the darkness, bringing hope and inspiration to those who seek to connect with the divine. Ohr Ein Sof is the guiding light that leads the seeker on the journey to spiritual fulfillment and ultimate union with God.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ein Sof and Ohr Ein Sof are two interconnected concepts in Kabbalistic thought that represent the infinite nature of God and the divine light that emanates from the source of all creation. While Ein Sof is the transcendent and unknowable essence of God, Ohr Ein Sof is the immanent and accessible manifestation of that divine light in the world. Together, they form a unified and harmonious whole, representing the eternal mystery and boundless love of the divine presence in the universe.