Just as a rose, which is found amidst the thorns, has within it the colors
red and white, also Knesset Yisrael - the Collective soul roots of Israel -
has within her both judgment and loving kindness. Just as a rose has in it thirteen petals, so too Knesset Yisrael has within her thirteen paths
of mercy which surround her from all her sides. (Zohar I, Intro. pg 1)