Kabbalah and Mysticism

Why Kabbalah Is Considered Dangerous

The potential for misuse and mental trauma led to restrictions on who could study Jewish mysticism.

Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Creation

This ancient mystical text introduced many concepts that would be more fully developed by the tradition of Kabbalah.

Running and Returning

The maze-like path of the labyrinth, leading in and out of a sacred center, echoes an ancient kabbalistic idea.

Chabad Messianism

Messianism in Chabad-Lubavitch challenges Jews of all denominations to consider the limits of Jewish theology.

The Tzaddik, or Rebbe

A Hasidic spiritual leader believed to maintain a channel to God.

Shneur Zalman of Liady

Founder of the Chabad school of Hasidism.

Who Was Rav Nachman of Breslov?

Famous for his sayings, stories and charisma, this Hasidic leader inspired a movement that is still vibrant today.

The Theology of Chabad

The problem of divine withdrawal inspires an alternate view of the universe.

Abraham Abulafia & Ecstatic Kabbalah

One strand of medieval kabbalah focused on achieving a transformative mystical experience.

Shekhinah: The Divine Feminine

This kabbalistic concept has been embraced by Jewish feminists.