Sefer Etz Chaim and Tanya

Both texts accept tzimtzum and the kav as essential theological mechanisms. Text 1 (Etz Chaim) emphasizes the functional necessity of tzimtzum for enabling kelim (vessels) to emerge and exist—it frames withdrawal as prerequisite for vessel creation. Text 2 (Tanya) emphasizes that even after tzimtzum creates chalal (empty space) and the kav functions within souls, these souls remain non-separate from divinity ('bechinas elokus b'tzimtzum atzum')—highlighting divine immanence within the contracted state. Text 1 focuses on the sequential mechanics (withdrawal, then vessel formation, then light return); Text 2 focuses on the paradox of simultaneity (souls are like vessels created by tzimtzum yet remain divine manifestations). The texts address complementary aspects rather than contradicting each other, but their emphases differ on whether tzimtzum produces ontological separation or maintains mystical unity.