kabbala

Kabbala, also spelled Kabbalah or Qabalah, is a mystical tradition within Judaism that seeks to understand the nature of God, the universe, and the human soul through esoteric interpretation of sacred texts. The term derives from the Hebrew word meaning "to receive" or "that which is received," referring to the transmission of hidden wisdom from teacher to student.

Origins of Kabbala can be traced to 12th and 13th century Spain and France, though practitioners believe its teachings date back to Moses and even Adam. The tradition flourished in medieval times, with key texts including the Sefer Yetzirah (Book of Formation) and the Zohar, a foundational work attributed to 13th century Spanish Kabbalist Moses de León.

Central concepts include the Ein Sof (the infinite, unknowable aspect of God), the ten sefirot (divine emanations through which God interacts with creation), and the idea that Hebrew letters and numbers contain mystical significance. The sefirot are often depicted as interconnected nodes representing attributes like wisdom, understanding, mercy, and judgment, forming what is known as the Tree of Life.

Kabbala traditionally required intensive study and was reserved for mature scholars, typically married men over the age of forty. The practice involves complex meditative techniques, prayer, and contemplation of divine names and angelic hierarchies.

In modern times, Kabbala has gained popular attention beyond traditional Jewish circles, sometimes leading to tensions with religious authorities who view such appropriation as inappropriate. Contemporary interest has been fueled by celebrity endorsements and simplified interpretations, though these often differ significantly from classical Kabbalistic teachings.

Today, Kabbala continues to influence Jewish spirituality while maintaining its reputation as one of the most profound and complex mystical traditions in Western religious thought.