Zohar and Tanya

Both texts engage with galut and sitra-achra but emphasize different theological functions. Text 1 (Tanya) focuses on galut as a spiritual concealment of divine vitality within created beings (חַיּוּת בִּבְחִינַת גָּלוּת בְּתוֹכָם), presenting it as an internal condition of divine vitality appearing exiled within finite existence. Text 2 (Zohar) emphasizes sitra-achra as an active force drawing sustenance during the fourth month (יַנְקָא מִסִּטְרָא אָחֳרָא), and galut as a state of descent and separation from holiness (בְּגָלוּתָא). The Tanya treats galut metaphysically as concealment within vitality itself; the Zohar treats it more narratively and dynamically as exile from and nourishment by the other side. The conceptual target differs: Tanya emphasizes divine vitality's hidden state, Zohar emphasizes cosmic judgment and the other side's power during exile.