Kabbalah

Question

Hi I am researching the Jewish religion and have come up the idea of Kabbalah and am interested in the subject and can’t seem to get a firm understanding so I’m hoping for a more direct description from your thanks and have a great day!

Answer

Shalom,

The Torah encompasses four distinct levels of meaning known as peshat, remez, derash, and sod. Peshat represents the literal interpretation, the narrative as written. Remez and derash are methods by which the Torah hints at broader concepts not explicitly stated in the text, including the arrangement of verses and the use of unusual or repeated words. Sod is the concealed aspect of the Torah that delves into divine influences in the world and the operations of higher powers in the spiritual realm. These concepts are alluded to through parables and hidden meanings in the Torah.

The sod level of the Torah is also identified as Kabbalah, literally meaning 'tradition.' This implies that understanding kabbalistic concepts independently is impossible; they have to be received through tradition from one's teacher. The line of this tradition traces back to Moses.


Comments

Have an additional question on this topic or need clarification? Leave your comment below. (Please note that the comment will not be published but will be sent directly to the answering Rabbi for review and a private response)

Please sign up or log in to submit your comment

Become our partners in supporting and spreading the Torah. Help us answer more questions faster and better.
Next
More questions in this category