Shechinah, derived from Hebrew, refers to the divine presence or dwelling of God in Jewish theology and mysticism. The word is often used to describe the manifestation of God's glory or radiance that is said to reside or rest upon a particular person, place, or object, signifying the spiritual or divine energy present in those moments.
In Jewish tradition, the Shechinah is believed to have a feminine character, representing the nurturing and compassionate aspects of God. It is often associated with acts of kindness, compassion, and protection. The presence of the Shechinah is often felt during sacred rituals such as prayer, study, or communal gatherings, as well as during times of celebration, grief, or introspection.
According to mystical interpretations of the Torah, the Shechinah initially dwelled within the Holy of Holies in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, resting above the Ark of the Covenant. However, after the Temple's destruction, the concept of the Shechinah evolved, suggesting that it no longer resided in one physical location but could be experienced anywhere people seek a connection with the divine.
In Kabbalistic teachings, the Shechinah is seen as the last and lowest level of the ten divine attributes known as the sefirot. It is considered an expression of God's immanence, the way in which the divine is present and active within creation.
In summary, Shechinah is a term used in Jewish spirituality to describe the divine presence or dwelling of God, often associated with the feminine qualities and expressed through acts of kindness, compassion, and protection. It can be experienced in various moments, rituals, or spaces where individuals seek a connection with the divine.
