Zohar and Nefesh HaChayim

Both texts address kavanah in tefillah but differ fundamentally in their focus and prescription. Nefesh HaChaim emphasizes *negation and bittul* of all powers (כח) except absolute transcendence of Ain Sof—the prayer must void all particular intentions and meditations. The Zohar passage describes an *experiential ascent* through mystical stages where the individual hears voices of cherubim and experiences mystical union ('אתדבקן'). Nefesh HaChaim warns *against* directing kavanah toward any specific sefirah or divine power, calling it 'worship without true God' (עבודה ללא אלקי אמת), while the Zohar envisages progressive inward ascent involving multiple sensory-mystical experiences. The texts articulate incompatible approaches: one prescriptive negation and simplification, the other descriptive mystical elevation.