Energy and Jewish Mysticism
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Modern spiritual movements frequently invoke kabbalistic concepts to promote personal mastery of universal "energy," yet this appropriation fundamentally misrepresents Jewish mystical teachings. Through systematic analysis of classical kabbalistic texts, particularly the Zohar, a stark contrast emerges between authentic Jewish mysticism and contemporary New Age interpretations. The research examines primary sources regarding energy (hayla), Divine emanation (sefirot), and spiritual influx (shefa), revealing how traditional kabbalah explicitly distinguishes between Divine Powers and created earthly energies. Classical sources emphasize that spiritual influx flows exclusively through regulated Divine channels, with the Zohar specifically warning against treating the sefirot as a "system of Divine irrigation" for individual benefit. Hasidic texts further restrict the capacity to induce Divine influx to spiritually accomplished individuals (tzaddikim) who act selflessly for communal benefit. The evidence demonstrates that contemporary energy-spirituality rhetoric not only contradicts authentic kabbalistic principles but also undermines core Jewish mystical values centered on Divine sovereignty, covenant relationship, and selfless service. This misappropriation ultimately serves New Age agendas while distorting traditional Jewish mystical teachings about the proper relationship between human beings and Divine power.

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Published 2001
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Elliot Gertel