Rabbi Moshe Cordovero on Arousal of the Righteous Towards Shekhinah

"There is a need for the arousal of the righteous in this lower world towards the Shekhinah in order for the righteous to be the throne and dwelling for the emanation pouring into this world from the Shekhinah. It is because of their merit that this emanation from above flows to the lower ones. Come and see: what is the meaning of 'I am my beloved's and his desire is towards me' (Shir haShirim 7:2)? 'I am my beloved's' ─ I first turn to God and then, as a consequence, 'His desire is towards me'. Thus, it is clear that arousal is needed in order to have a sanctuary, a fixed place and a throne for emanation. So, the principle of arousal indicates that there should be a fixed place and a preparation for emanation. It means that the light of emanation does not appear unless it has some kind of receptacle in which to be stored. When there is a receptacle and a fixed place in which to be stored in the world, light and emanation descend. Then, the light is revealed and seen; much emanation descends into Malkhut in order to feed the lower ones, giving delight and peace."

-- Rabbi Moshe Cordovero, Pardes Rimonim 8.20