the minute degree of illumination which results from the tzimtzumim enables the earth to exist in a finite manner and only in the finitude of inorganic and vegetable matter. G-d’s knowledge, however, as shall presently be explained, encircles the earth from above. For since His knowledge is infinite while the world is finite, it is impossible for this knowledge to pervade the earth, even though this knowledge constitutes the earth’s very creation and existence.