A collection of lectures on the features of the movement of mysticism that began in antiquity and continues in Hasidism today.
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Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
Informative:
Do you want to study and understand kabbalah in details? Are you trapped or met blinds in your studies into mysticism? Are you intrested to know who and who are the true author/authors of the great and renowned book in kabbalah The Zohar? You have met blinds in your kabbalah studies? Here is the one amongst other books that would shead light on your path to the true wisdom of the Ages. You would definately get more than your moneys worth.
Still the finest scholar's introduction to the Kabbalah:
When reading Scholem I often feel like I am reading an old testament prophet; his writing and words seem to convey a great dignity and authority and power beyond their age. Major Trends is basically a set of lectures Scholem gave on Jewish mysticism. Scholem was one of the first scholars to apply scientific methods of criticism to Jewish mystical texts and traditions and their sources, which had been neglected to a large extent in favour of the rational Jews like Moses Maimonides. The age of Reason had... more info
Excellent introduction to Kabbalah:
Gershom Scholem was a pioneer in the academic study of Jewish mysticism. Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism is an excellent introduction to the kabbalah. The book covers the main historical movements and personalities. It explains the basic doctrines, rituals, and texts. The footnotes and referenced authors and texts become an excellent source of further study for both the academician and the spiritual seeker.
Mysticism Without Obfuscation:
What I love best about Scholem is that he wrote eloquently about spiritual enlightenment without presenting himself as being a mystical master or guru. He will guide you through the history of Jewish esoteric thought, after which you can sample some source texts (many of which now are available in English translation). No preaching here - just good scholarly thought and clear, eloquent writing. It's also amazing how a 60-year old volume remains the standard introduction while still being regarded as... more info
