The Ten Sefirot
The Sefirot (סְפִירוֹת, singular: Sefirah) are the ten attributes/emanations in Kabbalah through which Ein Sof (The Infinite) reveals Itself and continuously creates both the physical realm and the chain of higher spiritual realms. The term is first found in the Sefer Yetzirah (Book of Creation), where they are described as ten "intangible Sefirot" (סְפִירוֹת בְּלִי מָה).
In the Zoharic and Lurianic traditions, the Sefirot are understood as dynamic forces that interact with one another to form the structure of all reality. They are arranged in a specific pattern called the "Tree of Life" (עֵץ חַיִּים, Etz Chaim), consisting of three pillars:
- Right Pillar (Mercy) - Chokmah, Chesed, Netzach
- Left Pillar (Severity) - Binah, Gevurah, Hod
- Middle Pillar (Balance) - Keter, Tiferet, Yesod, Malkhut
Each Sefirah contains all others within it, creating an infinitely complex system of relationships and interactions. The 288 Sparks are distributed across these ten Sefirot, with approximately 28-29 Sparks manifesting the qualities of each Sefirah.
The Ten Divine Emanations
Understanding the Sefirot
The Sefirot are not separate deities or beings, but rather aspects of the one God. They represent the way the Infinite contracts and reveals Itself to create and sustain the universe. The interplay between the Sefirot generates all the dynamics of creation - from the highest spiritual realms to the physical world.
Three Triads:
- Intellectual Triad (Keter, Chokmah, Binah) - The realm of consciousness and divine thought
- Emotional Triad (Chesed, Gevurah, Tiferet) - The realm of moral attributes and relationships
- Practical Triad (Netzach, Hod, Yesod) - The realm of implementation and expression
- Malkhut - The recipient and manifestation of all the above
Related Across the Mythos
Tree of Life
Divine Map
Etz Chaim - arrangement of Sefirot
The Four Worlds
Cosmic Levels
Angelic Orders
Each Sefirah has its ruling angel