Historical Periods

Historical Periods of Jewish Mysticism
By October 5, 2008 0 Comments Read More →

Historical Periods of Jewish Mysticism

by Prof. Elliot R. Wolfson Biblical Precursors The Hebrew Bible is a primary source of reflection and inspiration for virtually all branches of Jewish Mysticism and Esotericism. While we must be careful not to conflate the religion of the ancient Israelites with later periods of Jewish history, it remains clear that certain elements of continuity […]

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Overview: Shabbatai Zvi and Sabbateanism
By February 29, 2008 0 Comments Read More →

Overview: Shabbatai Zvi and Sabbateanism

Of far greater impact was the messianic movement that arose around Shabbetai Zvi (1626-1672). In fact, in its scope and intensity the so-called Sabbatian movement has no parallel in Jewish history. It drew its strength from traditional Jewish hopes for political and spiritual redemption; but the specific catalyst for it was the kabbalistic interpretation of […]

Posted in: Historical Periods