Introduction to the Book of Zohar (PDF) - Kabbalah Media Archive

I N T RO D U C T I O N T O T H E B O O K O F Z O H A R
In any case, both states are identical as regards the Creator. Time
and correction do not exist for the Creator, because with regard to Him
both these states are quite obvious and real. Only we, who are moving
along this path, gradually pass from one state to the other.
This transition consists of several stages. The first one is called
“construction of the worlds”, the second – “correction” and the third
– “ascent of the souls”. The first stage necessitates the existence of the
third one.
So, state one obliges the resurrection of the dead bodies. That is, their
huge desire to receive that became worthless, ended, and decayed in
state two (during correction). It must again rise from the dead, in
its enormous proportions without any reduction, that is, with all its
former shortcomings.
Work begins anew in order to turn the enormous desire to receive into
the desire to bestow for the sake of the Creator. Here we win twice:
First, we have an opportunity to obtain the abundance and pleasure
that is in the plan of creation. We already have a huge desire to
receive, which ascends together with these enjoyments.
Secondly, receiving in this way will be equal to the desire to delight
the Creator and will be a “pure” bestowal. In other words, we gain
the equivalence of properties with the Creator, which is complete
merging of our state one with state three.
Baal HaSulam wishes to tell us that state one, in which the will to
receive pleasure was created, is a minimal natural desire. At a later stage,
this desire is complemented with a huge “makeweight” – the intention
for oneself. This negative intention goes through a period called the “realization
of evil”, and is completely rejected by the person (considered
“dead”). The person who studies Kabbalah acquires the intention for the
sake of the Creator with the help of the Upper Light.
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