Meditations on Ayin (Nothingness) from the Kabbalists

Rabbi Moses ben Jacob Cordovero (Ramak)

• “Ayin is the state of absolute nothingness from which all existence emerges. It represents the ultimate source of creation, beyond comprehension and description. Meditating on Ayin involves contemplating the mystery of existence and the transition from nothingness to being, recognizing the divine origin of all things.”

Rabbi Isaac Luria (the Ari)

• “Ayin is the primordial void, the source of all creation. It is the nothingness that precedes the manifestation of Ein Sof and the sefirot. Practical application of Ayin involves engaging in deep meditation to transcend the material and conceptual boundaries, allowing one to connect with the pure potentiality of creation.”

Rabbi Yehuda Ashlag (Baal HaSulam)

• “Ayin represents the absolute nullification of the self, where one transcends ego and individuality. It is the ultimate state of selflessness and divine unity. Engaging with Ayin involves practices that focus on self-nullification and the realization of the unity of all existence, leading to a profound connection with the divine.”

Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (the Alter Rebbe)

• “Ayin is the ultimate source of divine emanation, where existence transitions from nothingness to being. It is the point of absolute simplicity and potential. Meditation on Ayin requires focusing on the concept of nullification and the realization that all existence is a manifestation of divine will, emerging from nothingness.”

Rabbi Chaim Vital

• “Ayin is the concealed source of all creation, representing the ultimate mystery and potential. It is the void from which divine light and existence emerge. Meditative focus on Ayin involves contemplating the transition from nothingness to being, and seeking to connect with the divine source that precedes all manifestation.”

Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto (Ramchal)

• “Ayin signifies the absolute origin of creation, where all distinctions and forms are nullified. It is the source of divine simplicity and unity. Practical applications of Ayin include engaging in meditation to transcend material limitations and connect with the infinite potential of the divine source.”

The Zohar

• “Ayin is described as the ultimate point of origin, the void from which the infinite light of Ein Sof emerges. It is the nothingness that contains all potential. Contemplation of Ayin involves recognizing the profound mystery of creation and the divine origin of all existence, striving to align oneself with the ultimate source of all being.”

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov

• “Ayin represents the state of absolute nullification and the root of all creation. It is the nothingness that precedes existence and holds infinite potential. Practical application of Ayin involves focusing on self-nullification, recognizing the divine presence in all aspects of life, and striving to connect with the pure potentiality of the divine source.”

These quotes reflect the diverse perspectives on the concept of Ayin within the tradition of Jewish mysticism. Each quote touches on different aspects of Ayin, including its principles of nothingness, potentiality, and divine origin, as well as its meditative focus and practical applications. The concept of Ayin emphasizes the importance of transcending material and conceptual boundaries, recognizing the divine source of all existence, and engaging in practices that foster self-nullification and connection with the ultimate source of creation.