Kabbalah: An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism

by Byron L. Sherwin

Overview

Kabbalah: An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism is a clear, accessible 'primer' and introduction to the major teachings of the Jewish mystics, to various dominant forms of Jewish mystical experiences, as well as to many of the significant texts that constitute classical Jewish mystical literature, and to their authors. Rather than provide an historical approach, this introduction to Jewish mysticism delineates five 'models' of Jewish mystical theology and experience: Normal Mysticism, Mystical Intimacy, Addressing God's Needs, Drawing Down Divine Grace, and Prophetic Kabbalah. Sherwin not only presents primary texts in translation, but also offers an explanation of each selection and provides a bibliography for further study.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780742543645
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	03/07/2006
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	264
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.55(d)

About the Author

Byron L. Sherwin is Distinguished Service Professor of Jewish Philosophy and Mysticism at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies in Chicago. He is an internationally recognized authority on Jewish theology, ethics and mysticism, and the author or editor of twenty-five books and over 150 articles and monographs, including Golems Among Us (Ivan R. Dee Publishers), Workers of Wonders (Rowman & Littlefield) and The Cubs and the Kabbalist: A Novel (West Oak Press).

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Entering the Orchard: An Invitation to the Study of Jewish Mysticism
Chapter 2 Models of Jewish Mystical Experience
Chapter 3 Normal Mysticism
Chapter 4 Access Codes: The Sefirot
Chapter 5 Mystical Intimacy
Chapter 6 Addressing God's Needs
Chapter 7 Drawing Down Divine Grace
Chapter 8 Prophetic Kabbalah
Chapter 9 Combined Models: Religious Life
Chapter 10 Combined Models: Magic and Messianic Redemption

Editorial Reviews

In Kabbalah: An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism, Professor Byron Sherwin has accomplished the impossible—he has made the esoteric and unbelievably complex teachings of Kabbalah accessible, offering an accurate and graceful gateway into the world of Jewish mysticism. Sherwin demonstrates how Kabbalah is an authentic expression of Jewish teachings, and draws on every aspect of Jewish tradition—law, legend, philosophy, theology, liturgy, ethics, and the rituals of observance. Sherwin's remarkable book finally provides the step-by-step introduction to Kabbalah that has been so desperately needed.

Howard Schwartz

Exceptional work...examine[s] the aura surrounding Kabbalah, demystifying the ancient lore and making it a more accessible bank of information for the interested and curious reader.

Jewish Book World

A comprehensive illustration of the five 'models', and thus presents a thematic investigation into Kabbalah.

Journal of Jewish Studies

Sherwin's introduction to Jewish mysticism is the most lucid, insightful and comprehensive treatment in its genre in any language. He offers a balanced vision of the variety of mystical phenomena in Judaism in an accessible and precise language.--Moshe Idel, Professor, Hebrew University of Jerusalem

At a time when there is much distortion of Jewish mysticism, this book presents a clear introduction to the authentic Jewish mystical tradition. Rabbi Sherwin wonderfully illuminates the genuine mystical dimension of Judaism. This book should be required reading for courses on the Jewish tradition and will make fascinating reading for all spiritual seekers.--Harold Kasimow, George Drake Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, Grinnell College

Sherwin's book is one of those rare finds: an accessible introductory work written by a distinguished scholar. The author's command of the historical material is very capable, and he leavens the scholarship with personal perspectives and even meditation instructions.--Jay Michaelson "Foreword Reviews "

From the Publisher

At a time when there is much distortion of Jewish mysticism, this book presents a clear introduction to the authentic Jewish mystical tradition. Rabbi Sherwin wonderfully illuminates the genuine mystical dimension of Judaism. This book should be required reading for courses on the Jewish tradition and will make fascinating reading for all spiritual seekers.

Harold Kasimow

Sherwin's book is one of those rare finds: an accessible introductory work written by a distinguished scholar. The author's command of the historical material is very capable, and he leavens the scholarship with personal perspectives and even meditation instructions.

Foreword Reviews - Jay Michaelson

Sherwin's introduction to Jewish mysticism is the most lucid, insightful and comprehensive treatment in its genre in any language. He offers a balanced vision of the variety of mystical phenomena in Judaism in an accessible and precise language.

Moshe Idel

A comprehensive illustration of the five 'models', and thus presents a thematic investigation into Kabbalah.

Journal Of Jewish Studies

Sherwin's book is one of those rare finds: an accessible introductory work written by a distinguished scholar. The author's command of the historical material is very capable, and he leavens the scholarship with personal perspectives and even meditation instructions.
— Jay Michaelson

ForeWord Reviews

Sherwin's book is one of those rare finds: an accessible introductory work written by a distinguished scholar. The author's command of the historical material is very capable, and he leavens the scholarship with personal perspectives and even meditation instructions.

Jay Michaelson Jay Michaelson

A comprehensive illustration of the five 'models', and thus presents a thematic investigation into Kabbalah.

Journal of Jewish Studies - 2008

Sherwin's book is one of those rare finds: an accessible introductory work written by a distinguished scholar. The author's command of the historical material is very capable, and he leavens the scholarship with personal perspectives and even meditation instructions.

Jay Michaelson