Kabbalah: An Introduction to Jewish Mysticism - Paperback

by Byron L. Sherwin (Author)

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.

Author Biography

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).