Cabbalah

Cabbalah (also spelled Kabbalah or Qabbalah) is a form of Jewish mysticism that seeks to explain the relationship between the unchanging, eternal God and the mortal, finite universe. It forms an integral part of the Jewish tradition and has influenced various aspects of Judaism and Western esotericism.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Cabbalah" derives from the Hebrew word "קַבָּלָה" (Qabbalah), meaning "reception" or "tradition." It refers to the received wisdom passed down through generations.

Historical Development[edit | edit source]

Cabbalah has its roots in early Jewish mystical texts such as the Sefer Yetzirah and the Heichalot literature. The most influential work in Cabbalistic literature is the Zohar, a mystical commentary on the Torah attributed to the 2nd-century sage Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai but likely composed in the 13th century by Moses de León.

Key Concepts[edit | edit source]

Ein Sof[edit | edit source]

In Cabbalah, Ein Sof (אין סוף) refers to the infinite and unknowable aspect of God. It is beyond comprehension and is the source of all creation.

Sefirot[edit | edit source]

The Sefirot are ten attributes or emanations through which Ein Sof reveals itself and continuously creates both the physical and metaphysical realms. These include Keter (Crown), Chokhmah (Wisdom), Binah (Understanding), and others.

Tree of Life[edit | edit source]

The Tree of Life is a symbolic representation of the Sefirot and their interrelationships. It serves as a map for spiritual ascent and understanding the divine structure of the universe.

Tzimtzum[edit | edit source]

Tzimtzum is the concept of divine contraction, where God "contracted" His infinite light to create a conceptual space for the finite world to exist.

Shekhinah[edit | edit source]

The Shekhinah represents the divine presence in the world, often associated with the feminine aspect of God.

Practices[edit | edit source]

Cabbalistic practices include meditation, prayer, and the study of sacred texts. These practices aim to achieve spiritual enlightenment and a closer connection to the divine.

Influence[edit | edit source]

Cabbalah has significantly influenced various aspects of Judaism, including Hasidism and Jewish philosophy. It has also impacted Western esoteric traditions such as Hermeticism, Rosicrucianism, and Theosophy.

Modern Cabbalah[edit | edit source]

In contemporary times, Cabbalah has gained popularity beyond the Jewish community, with various organizations and individuals promoting its teachings. However, traditional Jewish scholars often caution against the oversimplification and commercialization of Cabbalistic wisdom.