Kabbalism
Noun: 1. Adherence to extreme traditional theological concepts or interpretations: The term refers to a strict, often rigid, attachment to certain esoteric or mystical doctrines, particularly those derived from ancient traditions. 2. The doctrines of the Kabbalah: Specifically, it denotes the body of mystical teachings, interpretations, and practices originating in Jewish Kabbalah, which seek to explain the relationship between the eternal, unchanging God and the finite, mortal universe.
- Noun (Adherence to extreme concepts):
- His kabbalism was evident in his unwavering, literal interpretation of the ancient texts, rejecting any modern commentary.
- The scholar criticized the movement's kabbalism, arguing it hindered theological progress.
- Noun (Doctrines of Kabbalah):
- The book delves into the complex symbolism of kabbalism, exploring the ten Sefirot.
- Her study of kabbalism focused on the mystical significance of Hebrew letters.
- The term can be used metaphorically to describe any system of thought perceived as overly esoteric, secretive, or dogmatically complex.
- The professor dismissed the new economic theory as mere academic kabbalism, unintelligible to practical minds.
- Kabbalah (n, also spelled Cabala, Qabalah): The foundational Jewish mystical tradition from which kabbalism derives.
- Kabbalist (n): A practitioner or scholar of the Kabbalah; someone who adheres to kabbalism.
- Kabbalistic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the Kabbalah or kabbalism.
- He offered a kabbalistic interpretation of the scripture.
- Mysticism: Belief in or experience of a reality beyond normal human understanding.
- Esotericism: The quality of being intended for or understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge.
- Dogmatism: The tendency to lay down principles as undeniably true.
The word carries two distinct but related meanings. The first is a more general, sometimes pejorative, sense implying rigid adherence to arcane doctrines. The second is a specific, neutral reference to the teachings of Jewish mysticism itself. The intended meaning is usually clear from context.
- adherence to some extreme traditional theological concept or interpretation
- the doctrines of the Kabbalah