The Purpose of Creation Part 3

Before we discuss the approach of the Holy Ari (Rabbi Isaac Luria (1534-1572) on this subject, it is important to remember what I wrote several months ago, concerning the two great interpretations of Judaism which were current for several centuries; the mystical (Kabbalah) and the philosophical. Among the many differences between these two approaches, is the understanding of "attributes" and emotions as related to G-d. The philosophical approach argued for the unchanging, totally undifferentiated nature of G-d. All of the references in both Scripture and Talmud to Divine attributes were to be understood purely as allegory. Maimonides even went so far as declaring statements that "G-d is good" as being contrary to Judaism, since if He is Good, then there is something which He is not; namely bad. We are thus limiting Him. This is the theory of "Negative Attributes". The Kabbalah, on the other hand, sees the expressions of G-d;s goodness, compassion, love, laughing, crying, as very real. His attributes are of a far higher nature than ours by the same names, but, are in fact, the source of human qualities and feelings. That is  the understanding of Man being in the Image of G-d from the standpoint of Kabbalah. (It must be noted that some people try to reconcile these approaches as speaking on "different levels", but most see them as distinct, and mutually exclusive, approaches). The Ari is often seen as the greatest teacher and interpreter of Kabbalah. (He would most definitely be on my short list of all time Torah greats). His view is, to say the least, significant.
Let us consider a person who is beloved by many, with close family relationships, a loving spouse, adoring children and grandchildren. We might praise him or her as a loving spouse, dedicated parent and grandparent, loyal friend. Now, let us look at someone who ,through no desire or fault of their own, is, and always has been, alone. They may indeed have the capacity to be all of the above. But it has not manifested into reality. To use the appellations of "spouse" "parent", etc., would be not only incorrect, but horribly cruel. The Ari taught that so it is with G-d. Compassionate? Merciful? Loving? TO WHOM?!?! If there is no world, these become merely theoretical, even meaningless qualities. G-d's love, sadness, joy, only have meaning when there is someone to bestow upon, and share, these qualities! The world is an extension of G-d's attributes, a "completion" of G-d!
Although the more philosophically inclined would wince at this idea, implying a lack within G-d, filled only by Man, But for me, and many others, it is a message of great import. Not only do I have a place n the world, but my place, your place, everyone's place is essential to the very unfolding of G-d not only in the world, not only in history, but in the ups and downs of  life. not only is He aware of our existence, he is an intimate friend, whose being is "realized" (made real!) by our everyday experiences and encounters. In a sense, we are not only extensions, but partners with G-d. The expressions in Song of Songs "my beloved, my bride, my sister" take on whole new reality. I must say that this thought gives my life much meaning. I hope it will for you too!