Kav (קו): Line

Line of Light

The “line” or “ray” of Kav is the thin vector of Divine light that penetrated the chalal (void) following the Tzimtzum (initial concealment of Divine light) to initiate the creation of the finite world. It is the conduit for Divine energy to pass from the Infinite (Ain Sof) into the created worlds of Atzilut, Beriah, Yetzirah, and Asiyah.

Concepts of the Kav

Purpose: The Kav facilitates the creation of a finite space where something other than God can exist, allowing for the existence of matter and space.
The “Line” Structure: It acts as a bridge between the infinite, unknowable oneness and the finite world, often described as a, “[Kav Ohr Ain Sof]”—the Line of Infinite Light.
Process: After the Tzimtzum left a void, the Kav entered, and in the first stage of creation, this light emanated in ten “concentric circles” (egulim).
Subsequent Form: Later, it takes the form of a “man-like” being (yosher) that “enclothes” the kav, known as Adam Kadmon.

Context within Kabbalah

The Kav is part of the “theoretical” or intellectual Kabbalah, exploring the mechanism of creation. It is central to the Lurianic system—the teachings of Rabbi Isaac Luria—which describes the descent of the Divine light into our world to create life and spiritual structure.

The Kav is often described as the “revealed light” which creates the potential for all reality, passing through the Sefirot (the ten attributes).