Definition

Noun: 1. A student or practitioner of Kabbalah: A person who studies or is an expert in Kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition and esoteric interpretation of the Hebrew scriptures. 2. An expert in esoteric or obscure matters: By extension, a person who is highly skilled in any obscure, difficult, or esoteric field of knowledge.

Examples of Usage

• As a student of Kabbalah:
  • The medieval kabbalist wrote extensively about the ten sefirot, or divine emanations.
  • She consulted a renowned kabbalist to understand the mystical dimensions of the ancient text.
• As an expert in obscure matters:
  • When it comes to deciphering ancient codes, he is a true kabbalist.
  • Only a kabbalist of corporate tax law could unravel that complex regulation.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to describe anyone who delves deeply into complex, hidden, or specialized knowledge systems beyond mainstream understanding.
  • He is a kabbalist of vintage audio equipment, knowing the secrets of every tube amplifier ever made.

Variants and Related Words

• Kabbalah (n): The body of mystical Jewish teachings and practices.
• Kabbalistic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of Kabbalah or its practitioners; mysterious or esoteric.
  • The manuscript was filled with kabbalistic symbols.
• Cabalist (n): A variant spelling with the same meanings.

Synonyms

• Mystic: A person who seeks by contemplation and self-surrender to obtain unity with or absorption into the Deity or the absolute.
• Occultist: A person who believes in or studies supernatural or magical powers.
• Esotericist: A person versed in esoteric doctrines or knowledge intended for a small, initiated group.
• Savant: A learned person, especially a distinguished scientist; can imply deep, specialized knowledge.

Noun

1. a student of the Jewish Kabbalah
2. an expert who is highly skilled in obscure or difficult or esoteric matters