Daily Tanya Sunday 27th Tishreiy Igeres Hakodesh 25: Understanding the Concept of “Malchus” and the Divine Speech in Kabbalistic Thought

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Igeres Hakodesh 25

27th Tishreiy

Overview

This passage explores the mystical concept of “D’var Hashem” (the Word of God) as it is understood in Kabbalistic and Chassidic teachings, particularly in relation to the Shechinah (Divine Presence) and the Sefirah of Malchus. Drawing from the teachings of the Zohar, Kabbalists, and Chazal, it delves into the layered structure of divine emanation and how God’s speech animates different levels of creation.

  1. “D’var Hashem” as Shechinah and Malchus
  • The Word of God is referred to as Shechinah, Imma Tata’a (Lower Mother), and Matronita in the Zohar and Rabbinic literature.
  • These terms reflect the immanent aspect of God—how the Divine dwells within and enlivens creation.
  1. Malchus in Kabbalistic Terminology
  • In Kabbalah, Malchus is the tenth Sefirah, representing God’s kingship and speech.
  • It is the channel through which divine energy flows into creation, akin to a king ruling through his word.
  1. Levels of Malchus and Their Functions
  • Malchus of Atzilut (Emanation):
    • Refers to the divine speech that sustains exalted souls, such as those of Adam HaRishon, the Patriarchs, and Prophets.
    • These souls are described as utterly nullified to God, serving as chariots for the Divine.
    • Example: “The Shechinah speaks from the throat of Moshe,” indicating complete divine expression through the prophet.
  • Malchus of Beriah (Creation):
    • Enlivens souls and angels in the world of Beriah.
    • These beings are less elevated than those in Atzilut.
  •  
  • Malchus of Asiyah (Action):
    • Enlivens the physical world, including the earth and its elements.
    • Represents the lowest level of divine manifestation, yet still an expression of the Divine Word.

Takeaway

This teaching reveals the multi-layered nature of Divine speech, showing how God’s presence permeates all levels of existence, from the highest spiritual realms to the physical world. The concept of Malchus serves as a bridge between the infinite and the finite, illustrating how God’s kingship and creative power are expressed through speech and presence in every dimension of reality.

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