Zohar
Introduction
The Zohar (Hebrew: זֹהַר, lit. "Splendor" or "Radiance") is a foundational work in the literature of Jewish mystical thought known as Kabbalah. It is a mystical commentary on the Torah, written in a form of Aramaic and Hebrew. The Zohar is not a single book but a group of books, including commentary on the mystical aspects of the Torah and scriptural interpretations as well as material on mysticism, mythical cosmogony, and mystical psychology.
Historical Background
The Zohar first appeared in Spain in the late 13th century and was published by the Jewish writer Moses de León. While de León claimed that the work was authored by the 2nd-century sage Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, modern scholarship generally considers it to be a pseudepigraphic work, meaning it was attributed to an ancient author but actually written by someone else.
Structure and Content
The Zohar is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of the Torah and Jewish mysticism. The main sections include:
Zohar Chadash
The "New Zohar" includes additional commentaries and mystical insights not found in the original Zohar. It is often considered supplementary material.
Idra Rabba and Idra Zuta
These sections, known as the "Greater Assembly" and the "Lesser Assembly," delve into the mystical discussions among Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and his disciples. They explore the nature of the divine and the process of creation.
Sifra di-Tzeni'uta
The "Book of Concealment" is a brief but dense section that deals with the hidden aspects of the divine and the universe. It is considered one of the most esoteric parts of the Zohar.
Ra'aya Meheimna
The "Faithful Shepherd" is a section that presents dialogues between Moses, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, and other biblical figures. It focuses on the mystical meanings of the commandments.
Mystical Concepts
The Zohar introduces several key mystical concepts that have become central to Kabbalistic thought:
Sefirot
The Sefirot are the ten attributes through which the Infinite (Ein Sof) reveals itself and continuously creates both the physical realm and the chain of higher metaphysical realms. They are often depicted as a tree, known as the Tree of Life.
Ein Sof
Ein Sof, meaning "without end," is the term used to describe the infinite and unknowable aspect of God. It is considered the source of all creation and the ultimate reality in Kabbalistic thought.
Shekhinah
The Shekhinah represents the divine presence in the world. In the Zohar, it is often depicted as the feminine aspect of God, dwelling among the people of Israel and manifesting in the physical world.
Tzimtzum
Tzimtzum is the concept of divine contraction, explaining how the infinite God created a finite world. According to this idea, God contracted His infinite light to create a "space" where the physical and spiritual worlds could exist.
Influence and Legacy
The Zohar has had a profound impact on Jewish thought and spirituality. It has influenced various Jewish movements, including Hasidism, which emphasizes the mystical and spiritual aspects of Judaism. The Zohar has also been studied by non-Jewish scholars interested in mysticism and the esoteric traditions.
Criticism and Controversy
The authenticity and origins of the Zohar have been subjects of debate among scholars. While traditionalists maintain that it was authored by Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, critical scholars argue that it was written by Moses de León in the 13th century. The language, style, and historical context of the Zohar support the latter view.
Modern Interpretations
In contemporary times, the Zohar continues to be studied and interpreted by scholars and spiritual seekers. Various translations and commentaries have made the text more accessible to a wider audience. The Kabbalah Centre, for example, has popularized the study of the Zohar among non-Jewish audiences.