How G-D’s Presence Is Everywhere and Within Everything

Question: Explain to me how G-D's Presence is everywhere and within everything.

RAMI: When we speak about G-D’s Presence filling all of existence, we are referring to the idea that there is no place, no object, and no moment that exists independently of Him. This Presence is called שכינה (Shechinah, Divine Presence). The word שכינה comes from the root שכן, meaning “to dwell” or “to reside,” indicating that G-D is not distant, but present, settled, and active within creation itself.

This does not mean that G-D is the physical world, but rather that the world exists only because His Presence sustains it at every moment. Creation is not a one-time act; it is continuous. If G-D were to withdraw His sustaining force — the continuous flow of מזל (mazal, Divine energy that channels life into creation) — for even an instant, everything would cease to exist.

This is what is meant when we say there is nothing outside His Presence. There is no space “empty” of G-D, no corner of existence where He is absent. Even what appears hidden, even what seems distant or dark, is still enlivened by Him. The concealment is on our side, not His.

The שכינה is the aspect of G-D that is revealed within the world. It is how the Infinite allows Himself to be “perceived” within the finite. When a person does a מצוה (mitzvah, commandment), studies תורה (Torah, instruction), or acts with אמת (emet, truth), they are not bringing G-D into the world — He is already here. Rather, they are revealing what is already present.

This understanding changes how a person sees reality. A stone, a tree, a human being, even the breath one takes — all are sustained by the same Divine Presence. There is no separation except the illusion created by our limited perception.

Therefore, the question is not “Where is G-D?” but “Where is He not?” And the answer is: nowhere. There is no “outside.” Everything exists within Him, and He is within everything, sustaining it, guiding it, and giving it life.

I will leave you with something to ponder: when we say מזל טוב (mazal tov, a good flow of Divine energy), we are not wishing “good luck.” On the contrary, there is no such thing as luck. When we say mazal tov, we are expressing a blessing — that the flow of G-D’s sustaining energy into the life of the recipient should be good, clear, and revealed.

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RAMI Q&A is a regular WireNews column addressing questions on Torah, ethics, faith, culture, and the practical challenges of modern life. Each response is grounded in Jewish thought, clarity of reasoning, and fidelity to first principles, offering considered answers rather than opinion or sentiment.

Rabbi Rami ben Ze’ev was previously known as Ram ben Ze’ev. The addition of the letter י represents a personal step of spiritual refinement and deeper alignment with Torah, expressing humility, growth, and a strengthened commitment to the service of G-D. All teachings and writings are now published under this name.

To submit a question, email ask@ramibenzeev.org.