Our connection to H’Shem is envisioned as a rope, consisting of 613 strands, stretching from the highest aspect of our soul to the tetragrammaton. How can the tetragrammaton be understood in relationship to the actuality of G-d? The name of G-d depicted by the tetragrammaton, usually translated as L-RD, is not found until after Elokim (G-d) completed the creation of the heavens and the earth. “These are the generations of the heaven and of the earth when they were created, in the day that the L-RD G-d made earth and heaven” (Genesis 2:4, JPS 1917 Tanach).
According to Ramban, the final letter hei of YHVH, is associated with G-d’s hand, as per the verse, “For all these things hath my hand made” (Isaiah 66:2; commentary on Genesis 2:4, sefaria.org). This is the reason given, why kitvei kodesh (holy scripture) doesn’t mention the tetragrammaton until now. Specifically, it is revealed in the verse, wherein the Name first appears that…b’hibaram (when they were created; see above) can be read as two words, b’hei baram (created them with “the letter” hei).
So, when a sin occurs in someone’s life, whether with cognizance or not, the connection between one’s soul and H’Shem is diminished. In particular, this is symbolized as compromising the letter “yud” in H’Shem’s name, wherein the source of His divine flow stems from. Thereby, we only receive a lesser amount of divine flow to sustain our lives, if we sin. Another analogy, might be the closing off of a valve on a spicket, so that not as much water is flowing out as usual. We are diminished by our sinful ways, “You have separated between you and G-d” (Isaiah).
On Rosh HaShannah, let us make the effort to return to G-d: “Return to Me, and I will return to you, saith the L-RD of hosts” (Malachi 3:7, JPS). L’Shannah Tovah. May you have a sweet New Year with many blessings.
The Tree of Life 