Ohr Yashar (אוֹר יָשָׁר): Direct Light

Divine Light Energy from Creator to Creation

The divine, straight illumination flowing from the Creator to fill created vessels, primarily defined in Lurianic Kabbalah. It is the initial, freely given divine light, often contrasted with Ohr Hozer (Returning Light) or Ohr Makif (Surrounding Light) to explain the process of creation, spiritual rectification (Tikkun), and divine abundance.

• Ohr (אוֹר): Light.
• Yashar (יָשָׁר): Straight, direct, or upright.

Aspects of Ohr Yashar:

• Definition: The direct, linear flow of light from the Ein Sof (Infinite) downward, illuminating the inner vessels (Kelim) of creation.
• The Four Phases: Kabbalistic texts, particularly those of the ARI (Rabbi Isaac Luria), outline four phases (or Bechinot) of Ohr Yashar that create the vessels to receive it.
• Relationship to Ohr Hozer: Ohr Yashar is received only when a “screen” (Masach) on the vessel reflects it back, creating Ohr Hozer (Returning Light). This act ensures the light is received for the purpose of bestowing, rather than for selfish reception.
• Role in Creation: It represents the initial, free gift of light, which often leads to a desire for refinement in the creation.
• Spiritual Rectification: In Etz Chaim (Tree of Life), the study of Torah and observance of mitzvot are described as actions that draw down and elevate this light, restoring divine harmony.
  
  Ohr Yashar works in conjunction with Ohr Hozer (Altruistic Intention) to allow the light to enter the vessel (Kli) to act as a source of divine delight without creating egoistic separation.