זוהר שמות — דף נב ע”ב

The Zohar describes here Israel encamped at the sea, seeing many armies, troops and camps above and below, all gathering against them. They began to pray from within their distress. At that moment, Israel saw tribulations from every direction. Through their prayer, the Shekhinah was heard above, rose and was received. The way of repentance and prayer is the opening of the supernal gates, and when Israel unites in prayer, the Holy One awakens toward them.