Apayim

(Erech) Apayim is one of the 13 Attributes of Mercy of Arich Anpin and one of the most prominent among them (for which Arich Anpin is named).

Its Influence

The concept of the circular dimensions of Arich Anpin is the supreme encompassing light that surrounds all the worlds of Atzilut, Beriah, Yetzirah, and Asiyah. From there, the will of the Holy One, Blessed be He, can descend even into the physical world. The reason it can extend there is because for Arich Anpin, which is the level of Keter that transcends the chain of spiritual descent, above and below are all one. Therefore, it is called "Arich Anpin" after the attribute of "Erech Apayim" (long-suffering), as it can extend even to the lowest realms.

Its Meaning

The Alter Rebbe explains that Erech Apayim means exactly what it sounds like - the revelation of the "face" (panim) in a manner of length (arichut) and infinity. For "face" represents the revelation of divine influence through closeness, love, and affection, unlike "back" which is like one who throws something over his shoulder. And "Erech Apayim" means that this revelation should be long and extend very far downward.