3 Review(s)

Joseph Abelson's "Jewish Mysticism" provides an overview of the mystical aspects of Judaism, focusing on the development and key concepts of Jewish mysticism throughout history. The book covers various mystical movements and teachings within Judaism, shedding light on the esoteric and spiritual dimensions of Jewish thought.The main topics covered in "Jewish Mysticism" include:Historical Overview: Abelson explores the historical development of Jewish mysticism from ancient times to the medieval period and beyond. He discusses the mystical traditions found in ancient Jewish texts, such as the Merkabah mysticism and the Hekhalot literature, and traces the evolution of mystical thought through the medieval Kabbalistic schools.Kabbalah: A significant portion of the book is devoted to Kabbalah, the mystical and esoteric branch of Judaism. Abelson introduces key Kabbalistic concepts, such as the sefirot (divine emanations), the Tree of Life, and the importance of Jewish mystics known as Kabbalists. He discusses the influence of Kabbalah on Jewish philosophy, theology, and religious practice.Mystical Interpretation of Scripture: Abelson explores how Jewish mystics interpreted the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) in mystical and allegorical ways, seeking hidden meanings and insights into the divine.