Definition

1. Noun:
   • An esoteric theosophy of rabbinical origin: "Qabbalah" refers to a mystical and secretive system of Jewish theology and philosophy. It is based on interpreting the Hebrew scriptures to uncover hidden meanings about God, the universe, and the human soul. This tradition was developed primarily between the 7th and 18th centuries.

Usage

• "Qabbalah" is a proper noun used to name this specific mystical tradition. It is typically used in academic, religious, or historical contexts when discussing Jewish mysticism, comparative religion, or the history of ideas.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The scholar dedicated his life to studying the ancient texts of the Qabbalah.
  • Medieval Qabbalah introduced complex concepts like the ten Sefirot, or divine emanations.

Advanced Usage

• "Christian Qabbalah": A tradition that emerged during the Renaissance, where Christian scholars adapted and interpreted Jewish Kabbalistic ideas within a Christian theological framework.
  • The works of Pico della Mirandola were foundational to the development of Christian Qabbalah.

Variants and Related Words

• Kabbalah (n): The most common alternate spelling in English.
• Cabala or Cabbala (n): Other historical variant spellings.
• Kabbalistic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the Qabbalah.
  • His interpretation of the dream was deeply kabbalistic.
• Kabbalist (n): A practitioner or scholar of the Qabbalah.

Synonyms

• Jewish Mysticism: A broader term encompassing Qabbalah and other mystical currents within Judaism.
• Esoteric Judaism: Highlights the secretive, initiatory nature of the tradition.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of "Qabbalah" is this specific system of esoteric thought. While the word literally means "reception" or "tradition" in Hebrew, in English it refers exclusively to the doctrinal and interpretive system described in the definition. It is distinct from mainstream Jewish law or exoteric scripture study.

Noun

1. an esoteric theosophy of rabbinical origin based on the Hebrew scriptures and developed between the 7th and 18th centuries