The Jewish mystical tradition is rich and diverse, and Jewish mysticism has taken many forms. The first forms emerged in the early centuries of the first millennium. Kabbalah is the most famous form of Jewish mysticism. It flowered in 13th century Spain with the writing of the Zohar, which was originally attributed to the 2nd century sage Shimon bar Yohai.  There is so much to understand within this topic, that is difficult to know where to begin. Until now.

Rabbi Elizabeth Hersh will teach “Jewish Mysticism: Tracing the History of Kabbalah,” as part of a 10-session Melton School course, starting in August. The course will be offered on Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m., from Aug. 3 through Oct. 12 (with no class on Oct. 5) and will be in a hybrid format: in-person at Temple Emanuel, or online via Zoom. 

The course will aim to provide “a deep and intellectually honest understanding of the historical development of Kabbalah,” examining how centuries of societal and cultural changes shaped Jewish mysticism, including its cryptic nature and its controversies. Learners will explore the rich source material itself on a rigorous, scholarly level, and to discuss the timeless mysteries of human existence and the laws of the universe. 

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The cost is $295. Confidential scholarships are available by contacting [email protected]. A special tuition rate of $50 is available for any full- or part-time professionals working at Jewish organizations, including teachers and staff in St. Louis Jewish preschools, religious schools, day schools, and youth groups, through the Borow Endowment for Jewish Education, managed by Jewish Federation of St. Louis. Email [email protected] for the coupon code. For more information, visit www.meltonschool.org/st-louis.