Topics in 13th Century Kabbalah

Catalog description

An examination of the key themes of the formative period of Kabbalah. Topics studied will include: origins of Kabbalah, relationship to Maimonides, role of Sefer Yetsirah, Catalonian versus Castilian Kabbalah, kabbalistic theosophy, theories of evil, views of the nature of language, reasons for the commandments, and mystical experience. Readings will be taken from the works of Asher b. David, Ezra of Gerona, Azriel of Gerona, Jacob ha-Kohen, Isaac ha-Kohen, Todros Abulafia, Moses de Leon, and Josef Gikatilla.