In Kabbalistic thought, Adam Kadmon is not only the first emanation but also the highest and most primordial spiritual realm. It is the archetypal construct of Divine Ratson, (Divine Will) the blueprint for all creation, and the intermediary between the Infinite (Ein Sof) and the subsequent realms of Atzilut, Beri’ah, Yetzirah, and Assiyah. As the first manifestation of Divine intention (Kavanah), Adam Kadmon is both a container for the pure, undifferentiated light of Ein Sof and the channel through which this light is transmitted into structured creation. In this way, Adam Kadmon holds within itself the root of all worlds, souls, and spiritual dynamics, unifying the Infinite and the finite in a single, transcendent realm.
As a realm, Adam Kadmon is unique in its absolute unity, where the Infinite light remains unbroken and undivided. The light of Ein Sof flows into Adam Kadmon, where it begins to take form without yet fragmenting into the specific emanations of the lower worlds. This light is described as flowing outward through metaphorical apertures, such as the “eyes,” “ears,” and “mouth” of Adam Kadmon. These apertures symbolize the channels through which the Divine lights (Nekudim) are transmitted, each corresponding to a unique illumination mode. The lights emerging from the “eyes” of Adam Kadmon are particularly significant, as they represent the first articulation of Divine Ratson into creation. These lights are associated with the Kav, the focused ray of Divine light that penetrates the Chalal (the metaphysical void created by Tzimtzum) and initiates the creative process.
The lights from Adam Kadmon‘s “eyes” are deeply connected to Genesis 1:3-4, where G-d declares, “Let there be light,” “And G-d saw the light was good.” This light, known in Kabbalistic literature as the Ohr HaGanuz (hidden light), is not physical but a spiritual illumination that embodies the essence of Divine unity and purpose. When the Ohr HaGanuz emanates from Adam Kadmon, it momentarily fills the Chalal, illuminating all existence with a clarity that reveals the unity of the Divine Ratson. However, this light is too intense for the finite worlds to contain and is subsequently concealed, withdrawn into the upper realms of Adam Kadmon, and stored for the Neshamot Tzaddikim (righteous souls) who align themselves with the Divine Ratson. This concealment reflects the balance between “revelation and concealment,” which is central to the creation dynamic.
As a realm, Adam Kadmon represents the ultimate source of both the revealed and concealed aspects of creation. The lights that emerge from it serve as the blueprint for all subsequent worlds, while its unity ensures that these worlds remain connected to their Infinite source. In this sense, Adam Kadmon is not merely a starting point but a perpetual presence within creation, guiding and sustaining it through the constant flow of Divine Energy (Shefa). “Shefa” is a meditative energy that allows us to focus on spiritual light, such as “Kav.” The Kav that emanates from Adam Kadmon is the vehicle through which this energy flows, ensuring that the Infinite light of Ein Sof reaches even the lowest realms without overwhelming them.
The role of Adam Kadmon as both a realm and an archetype is inseparable from its connection to the Messiah. In Kabbalistic thought, the Messiah embodies the essence of Adam Kadmon, serving as the mediator between the Infinite and the finite, concealed and revealed. Just as Adam Kadmon channels the Divine light into creation, the Messiah channels the redemptive light of Tikkun (rectification) into the fragmented worlds, gathering the Shevirat HaKelim (Shattering of the Vessels) of Divine light and restoring them to their source. The lights of Adam Kadmon—particularly those emanating from its “eyes”—are the source of this redemptive energy, illuminating the path of creation and rectification.
The interplay of light and darkness within Adam Kadmon further underscores its role in creation. Though concealed, the light of Ohr HaGanuz remains present within the Chalal, ensuring that even in its hidden state, the Divine Presence suffuses all existence. This balance between light and darkness is reflected in Genesis 1:4, where G-d separates the light from the darkness. In Kabbalistic terms, the light represents the revealed aspects of the Divine, while the darkness represents the concealed aspects. Yet both are necessary for creation to fulfill its purpose. Darkness allows for the independence of creation, while light ensures its connection to the Infinite. Within Adam Kadmon, this balance is perfect, as the realm exists simultaneously as a vessel for the Infinite light and as the source of differentiation for the lower worlds.
