Kabbalah Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Kabbalah
[kəˈbɑːlə ]
Definition
Jewish mysticism
Kabbalah is a form of Jewish mysticism that seeks to understand the nature of God and the universe. It involves various esoteric teachings and interpretations of the Torah, emphasizing the mystical aspects of creation and existence. Kabbalah has gained popularity in modern spirituality, influencing various philosophical and religious movements.
Synonyms
esotericism, mysticism, occultism.
Examples of usage
- She studied Kabbalah to deepen her understanding of spirituality.
- Kabbalah teaches that the universe is a reflection of divine attributes.
- Many celebrities have expressed interest in Kabbalah and its teachings.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Kabbalah began in the 12th century in Provence, France, as a way to explore and deepen Jewish mystical concepts.
- The Zohar, a foundational text of Kabbalah, was written in the 13th century by the Spanish-Jewish mystic Moses de Leon.
- The word 'Kabbalah' comes from a Hebrew word meaning 'to receive', reflecting the knowledge passed down through generations.
Influence on Religion
- Kabbalah has influenced various branches of Judaism, especially Hasidism, which emphasizes spirituality and personal connection to God.
- It has also drawn interest from outside Judaism, merging with New Age philosophies and mysticism in the 20th century.
- Some Christian mystics adopted Kabbalistic concepts, seeing parallels with their own spiritual practices.
Symbolism
- The Tree of Life is a primary symbol in Kabbalah, representing ten attributes through which God interacts with the universe.
- Each of the ten attributes, or Sefirot, corresponds to different aspects of existence, personality, and divine qualities.
- Kabbalists often use gematria, a method of interpreting sacred texts through the numerical values of Hebrew letters.
Modern Interpretations
- In recent years, Kabbalah has gained popularity among celebrities and public figures, leading to a modern interpretation that sometimes diverges from traditional beliefs.
- Kabbalistic teachings encourage personal growth and enlightenment, influencing various self-help movements globally.
- Many contemporary books and courses now offer insights into Kabbalah, making its concepts accessible to a wider audience.
Cultural References
- Kabbalah has appeared in films, literature, and music, often as a symbol of hidden wisdom or deeper truths.
- The concept of Kabbalah has inspired artists, such as Marc Chagall, who incorporated mystical themes into their work.
- Popular culture references include jokes about 'Kabbalah water' and its association with celebrity culture.
Origin of 'Kabbalah'
The term 'Kabbalah' comes from the Hebrew word 'Qabbalah', which means 'receiving' or 'tradition'. It refers to a mystical interpretation of the Jewish scriptures, with its origins tracing back to the 12th century in Provence, France. However, its roots can be found in earlier Jewish texts and traditions, which explored mystical ideas about God, creation, and the purpose of life. The Kabbalistic tradition has evolved over the centuries, integrating philosophical, alchemical, and even astrological concepts, reflecting the broader cultural contexts in which it developed. One of the most significant texts in Kabbalah is the 'Zohar', a mystical commentary on the Torah written in the late 13th century by the Spanish-Jewish mystic Moses de Leon. Kabbalah experienced a revival in the late 20th century, attracting interest from both Jews and non-Jews alike, as it offers a layered understanding of spiritual concepts that appeal to a wide audience.