Kabbalah and the Art of Being: The Smithsonian Lectures Paperback - 2000

First line

This book looks at the treasures of the doctrine of Jewish mysticism of the last millennium, known as Kabbalah, from existential and psychological points of view.

From the rear cover

Why has Kabbalah become the ultimate wisdom in Jewish spirituality?

How has it sustained the life and destiny of the Jewish people?

Professor Shimon Shokek, through his new approach to Kabbalah, suggests that the central ingredient in the spiritual teachings of Jewish mysticism is to be found in the Kabbalistic theme of Creation. Professor Shokek argues that Kabbalah is not just a religious phenomenon or an esoteric theology, but a practical wisdom for living, creativity and well being. Thus, he introduces Kabbalah as a spiritual Jewish way of living, an Art of Being.

This book skilfully reveals the core questions that emerge from the wisdom of the Jewish sages. It considers in depth the Kabbalistic meaning of Creation, mysticism, communion with God, language and speech, the human soul, messianism and repentance. Professor Shokek asks:
-- what is the Kabbalistic perception of existence and being?
-- how and why have Kabbalistic ideas been integrated into the lives of the Jewish people, shaping their fate and identity?
-- what is the nature of Kabbalah and the truth behind it?
-- can we understand Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism in the light of world philosophy and contemporary psychological theories?

At a time when the study of Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism is attracting a growing number of students, Kabbalah and the Art of Being opens an accessible and lively avenue of debate, for both the academic student and the interested general reader.