Results for "Gematria"
Immediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1775240047
Kabbalah is a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it, encompassing a complex system of symbols, texts, and spiritual practices. ## Overview Kabbalah, derived from the Hebrew word **Kabalah**, meaning "receiving" or "tradition," is a Jewish mystical tradition that seeks to understand the mysteries of existence. Emerging in medieval Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, Kabbalah draws upon the Torah and other Jewish scriptures, as well as influences from Hellenistic philosophy, Gnosticism, and other esoteric traditions. This complex system of thought combines **theurgy**, the practice of using rituals and symbols to attain a deeper understanding of the divine, with **esoteric** interpretations of Jewish scripture. At its core, Kabbalah aims to reveal the **hidden** patterns and codes within the Torah, believed to contain the secrets of creation, the nature of the divine, and humanity's destiny. Kabbalistic texts, such as the **Zohar** and the **Talmud**, provide a framework for understanding the **Sephirot**, a set of divine attributes or emanations that underlie the universe. Practitioners of Kabbalah seek to attain a state of spiritual unity with the divine, known as **Tikkun Olam**, or the "repair of the world." ## History/Background The earliest known sources of Kabbalistic thought date back to the 10th century in Islamic Spain, where Jewish scholars interacted with Islamic and Christian philosophers. The **Sefer Yetzirah** (Book of Formation), a foundational text of Kabbalah, is believed to have originated during this period. Kabbalistic ideas gained widespread popularity in 13th-century southern France, particularly in the city of Narbonne, where the influential **Rabbi Isaac the Blind** lived. His teachings on the nature of the **Sephirot** and the **Ein Sof** (the infinite, unknowable divine) laid the groundwork for later Kabbalistic developments. ## Key Information Kabbalah is characterized by its use of complex symbolic language, including **gematria**, the practice of assigning numerical values to Hebrew letters, and **geometric** representations of the **Sephirot**. Key texts include: * **The Zohar**: a foundational text attributed to Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, considered the central work of Kabbalah. * **The Talmud**: a collection of Jewish traditions, laws, and mystical teachings. * **The Sefer Yetzirah**: a foundational text of Kabbalah. Kabbalistic practices include: * **Meditation**: focusing on the **Sephirot** and the divine attributes. * **Rituals**: using **theurgy** to attain spiritual unity with the divine. * **Study**: examining Kabbalistic texts and symbolism. ## Significance Kabbalah has had a profound impact on Jewish mysticism, influencing art, literature, and spirituality. Its emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of spiritual unity has inspired artists, thinkers, and spiritual seekers across cultures. Kabbalah's influence extends beyond Judaism to other esoteric traditions, including Gnosticism, Hermeticism, and modern spiritual movements. INFOBOX: - Name: Kabbalah - Type: Jewish Mysticism - Date: 10th-16th centuries - Location: Spain, Italy, and southern France - Known For: Developing a complex system of symbols, texts, and spiritual practices to understand the nature of the divine and humanity's place within it. TAGS: Jewish Mysticism, Esotericism, Theurgy, Sephirot, Ein Sof, Gematria, Geometric Representation, Zohar, Talmud, Sefer Yetzirah, Meditation, Rituals, Study, Jewish Tradition, Gnosticism, Hermeticism.
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1776225905
The **Kabbalah** is an ancient Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the universe, the divine, and humanity's place within it, providing a rich framework for spiritual growth and self-discovery. ## Overview The **Kabbalah** (Hebrew: קַבָּלָה, meaning "receiving" or "tradition") is a complex and multifaceted system of thought that has evolved over centuries, influencing Jewish mysticism, philosophy, and spirituality. At its core, the **Kabbalah** seeks to understand the mysteries of creation, the nature of the divine, and the interconnectedness of all things. This esoteric tradition is rooted in the Hebrew Bible and the Talmud, but its teachings and practices have been shaped by various influences, including Greek philosophy, Neoplatonism, and Sufism. The **Kabbalah** is often associated with the concept of the **Ein Sof** (Infinite), the ultimate reality that transcends human comprehension. From this infinite source, the **Kabbalah** posits the existence of a series of emanations, or **Sefirot**, which represent the various aspects of the divine. These Sefirot are seen as interconnected, forming a web of relationships that underlies all of existence. The **Kabbalah** also emphasizes the importance of the **Tzimtzum**, or contraction, which refers to the divine decision to create a space for the universe to exist, allowing for the emergence of finite, created beings. ## History/Background The **Kabbalah** has its roots in the 13th century, when Jewish mystics in Spain and Provence began to develop a new system of thought that drew on biblical and Talmudic sources. One of the key figures in the development of the **Kabbalah** was Rabbi Isaac Luria (1534-1572), a mystic and scholar who lived in Safed, Israel. Luria's teachings, which emphasized the importance of the Sefirot and the Tzimtzum, became the foundation of the **Kabbalah** as we know it today. Over the centuries, the **Kabbalah** has evolved and branched out in various directions, influencing Jewish mysticism, Hasidism, and other spiritual movements. In the 16th century, the **Kabbalah** was introduced to Europe by Jewish scholars and mystics, where it influenced the development of Western esotericism and the emergence of modern spiritual movements. ## Key Information Some of the key concepts and practices associated with the **Kabbalah** include: * **Sefirot**: The ten emanations of the divine, which represent various aspects of the divine and the interconnectedness of all things. * **Tzimtzum**: The divine decision to create a space for the universe to exist, allowing for the emergence of finite, created beings. * **Ein Sof**: The ultimate reality that transcends human comprehension, the source of all existence. * **Gematria**: A system of numerology that assigns numerical values to Hebrew letters and words, used to uncover hidden meanings and connections. * **Merkabah**: A mystical vehicle or chariot that allows the soul to ascend to higher realms of consciousness. * **Tikkun Olam**: The concept of repairing or perfecting the world, through spiritual growth and self-improvement. ## Significance The **Kabbalah** has had a profound impact on Jewish mysticism, philosophy, and spirituality, influencing the development of Hasidism, the Baal Shem Tov's teachings, and other spiritual movements. Its emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of spiritual growth and self-improvement has resonated with people from diverse backgrounds and traditions. The **Kabbalah** has also influenced Western esotericism, influencing the development of modern spiritual movements, such as Theosophy and New Age spirituality. Its emphasis on the importance of the divine feminine and the interconnectedness of all things has made it a popular subject of study and interest in contemporary spirituality. INFOBOX: - Name: **Kabbalah** - Type: Jewish Mysticism, Philosophy, Spirituality - Date: 13th century - Location: Spain, Provence, Israel - Known For: Exploring the nature of the universe, the divine, and humanity's place within it. TAGS: Jewish Mysticism, Kabbalah, Sefirot, Tzimtzum, Ein Sof, Gematria, Merkabah, Tikkun Olam, Hasidism, Western Esotericism, Spirituality, Philosophy.
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1779373100
** The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is an ancient, mystical Jewish text that explores the symbolic connections between the natural world and the divine realm. **CONTENT:** ## Overview The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is a lesser-known yet deeply profound text within the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah. This enigmatic work is believed to have originated in the 13th century, likely in the Iberian Peninsula, although its exact authorship remains unknown. The text's central theme revolves around the symbolic correspondences between various trees, plants, and celestial bodies, which are seen as reflections of the divine structure of the universe. By deciphering these symbolic connections, the **Kabbalah of the Trees** offers a unique perspective on the nature of reality, the human condition, and the path to spiritual enlightenment. The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is characterized by its use of **Gematria**, a system of numerology that assigns numerical values to Hebrew letters, allowing for the decoding of hidden meanings and connections between words and concepts. This text is also notable for its emphasis on the **Sefirot**, a complex system of divine emanations that underlie the structure of the universe. By exploring the relationships between the Sefirot and the natural world, the **Kabbalah of the Trees** provides a rich tapestry of symbolism and metaphor that invites the reader to contemplate the mysteries of existence. ## History/Background The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is believed to have been written during the Golden Age of Jewish culture in Spain, a period marked by significant intellectual and artistic achievements. The text's authorship is often attributed to a mysterious figure known only as the **"Master of the Trees"**, although some scholars suggest that it may have been compiled by a group of Kabbalistic scholars. The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is thought to have been transmitted orally before being written down, which may explain the text's enigmatic and often cryptic nature. ## Key Information The **Kabbalah of the Trees** consists of a series of cryptic passages and symbolic descriptions that explore the connections between various trees, plants, and celestial bodies. Some of the key concepts and symbols featured in the text include: * **The Tree of Life**: a central symbol of the Kabbalah, representing the divine structure of the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. * **The Sephirot**: a complex system of divine emanations that underlie the structure of the universe and are reflected in the natural world. * **Gematria**: a system of numerology that assigns numerical values to Hebrew letters, allowing for the decoding of hidden meanings and connections between words and concepts. * **The Four Worlds**: a concept that describes the four levels of reality, from the physical world to the highest spiritual realms. ## Significance The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is a significant text within the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah, offering a unique perspective on the nature of reality and the human condition. By exploring the symbolic connections between the natural world and the divine realm, the text provides a rich tapestry of symbolism and metaphor that invites the reader to contemplate the mysteries of existence. The **Kabbalah of the Trees** is also notable for its emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things, highlighting the importance of living in harmony with nature and recognizing the divine presence in all aspects of life. **INFOBOX:** - Name: **Kabbalah of the Trees** - Type: **Mystical Jewish Text** - Date: **13th century** - Location: **Iberian Peninsula** - Known For: **Exploring the symbolic connections between the natural world and the divine realm** **TAGS:** **Kabbalah, Jewish Mysticism, Gematria, Sefirot, Tree of Life, Sephirot, Four Worlds, Jewish Mystical Tradition**
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1781751066
The Qabalah is an esoteric Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity, offering a complex system of symbolism, numerology, and spiritual practices. ## Overview The Qabalah is an ancient Jewish mystical tradition that has evolved over the centuries, influencing various aspects of Western esotericism. At its core, the Qabalah is a spiritual path that seeks to understand the mysteries of the universe, the nature of the divine, and the human condition. This mystical art is rooted in the Hebrew Bible, particularly the Torah, and has been shaped by the contributions of Jewish mystics, philosophers, and Kabbalists throughout history. The Qabalah is characterized by its use of symbolism, numerology, and intricate diagrams, such as the Tree of Life, which represent the interconnectedness of the divine, the universe, and humanity. The Qabalah is often misunderstood as a simple system of numerology or a collection of mystical symbols. However, it is a rich and complex tradition that encompasses a wide range of spiritual practices, including meditation, contemplation, and ritual magic. Qabalistic teachings emphasize the importance of self-reflection, spiritual growth, and the attainment of gnosis, or spiritual knowledge. By exploring the mysteries of the Qabalah, practitioners seek to deepen their understanding of the universe and their place within it, ultimately achieving a state of spiritual enlightenment. ## History/Background The Qabalah has its roots in ancient Jewish mysticism, which emerged in the 2nd century BCE. During this period, Jewish mystics began to explore the deeper meaning of the Torah, seeking to understand the mysteries of the divine and the universe. The Qabalah developed further in the Middle Ages, particularly in Spain and Italy, where Jewish mystics such as Isaac Luria and Moses Cordovero made significant contributions to the tradition. The Qabalah was also influenced by other esoteric traditions, including Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Alchemy. The Qabalah experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Renaissance, particularly in Italy and England, where it influenced the development of Western esotericism. The Qabalah was also adopted by Christian mystics, such as Jacob Boehme, who incorporated Qabalistic teachings into his own spiritual system. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Qabalah continued to evolve, influenced by the rise of Theosophy and other esoteric movements. ## Key Information The Qabalah is characterized by its use of symbolism, numerology, and intricate diagrams, such as the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life is a complex diagram that represents the interconnectedness of the divine, the universe, and humanity. The Tree is composed of ten sephiroth, or nodes, which correspond to different aspects of the divine and the universe. The Qabalah also employs a system of numerology, known as gematria, which assigns numerical values to letters and words in the Hebrew alphabet. Qabalistic teachings emphasize the importance of self-reflection, spiritual growth, and the attainment of gnosis, or spiritual knowledge. Practitioners of the Qabalah seek to deepen their understanding of the universe and their place within it, ultimately achieving a state of spiritual enlightenment. The Qabalah also offers a complex system of spiritual practices, including meditation, contemplation, and ritual magic. ## Significance The Qabalah has had a profound impact on Western esotericism, influencing the development of various spiritual traditions, including Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Alchemy. The Qabalah has also shaped the spiritual practices of many individuals, including artists, writers, and musicians. The Qabalah continues to be a vital and evolving tradition, offering a rich and complex system of symbolism, numerology, and spiritual practices that inspire spiritual growth and self-discovery. INFOBOX: - Name: The Qabalah - Type: Esoteric Jewish Mystical Tradition - Date: 2nd century BCE - present - Location: Spain, Italy, England, and other parts of Europe - Known For: Complex system of symbolism, numerology, and spiritual practices TAGS: Jewish Mysticism, Esotericism, Qabalah, Tree of Life, Gematria, Numerology, Spiritual Practices, Self-Discovery, Gnosis, Western Esotericism.
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1778620144
The Kabbalah is a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it, providing a rich and complex system of thought that has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy. ## Overview The Kabbalah, also known as the **Cabala**, is a Jewish mystical tradition that emerged in the Middle Ages in Spain and Italy. At its core, the Kabbalah seeks to understand the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it. This complex system of thought is based on the idea that the universe is a vast, interconnected web of energies and forces, and that humans can access and manipulate these forces through various spiritual practices and rituals. The Kabbalah is characterized by its use of symbolism, metaphor, and allegory to convey profound spiritual truths, and its emphasis on the importance of **Tikkun Olam**, or the repair of the world. The Kabbalah is often associated with the **Zohar**, a foundational text written by Moses de León in the 13th century. The Zohar is a dense, poetic, and often cryptic work that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it. The Zohar is divided into several sections, each of which explores a different aspect of the Kabbalistic system, including the nature of the divine, the structure of the universe, and the role of humanity in the cosmic drama. At its core, the Kabbalah is a spiritual practice that seeks to help individuals connect with the divine and achieve spiritual enlightenment. This is achieved through various practices, including meditation, prayer, and the study of sacred texts. The Kabbalah also places a strong emphasis on the importance of **Gematria**, or the study of the numerical value of words and phrases, which is believed to hold the key to unlocking deeper spiritual truths. ## History/Background The Kabbalah emerged in the Middle Ages in Spain and Italy, where it developed as a distinct mystical tradition within Judaism. The Kabbalah was influenced by various sources, including **Neoplatonism**, **Gnosticism**, and **Hermeticism**, which introduced new ideas and concepts that were incorporated into the Kabbalistic system. The Kabbalah also drew on Jewish scripture and tradition, including the **Torah** and the **Talmud**, which provided a rich source of symbolism and metaphor. The Kabbalah gained widespread popularity in the 16th century, particularly in Italy and Eastern Europe, where it became a central part of Jewish spiritual life. The Kabbalah was also influenced by the **Hasidic movement**, which emerged in the 18th century and emphasized the importance of emotional and devotional practices in achieving spiritual enlightenment. ## Key Information * The Kabbalah is a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it. * The Kabbalah is based on the idea that the universe is a vast, interconnected web of energies and forces, and that humans can access and manipulate these forces through various spiritual practices and rituals. * The Kabbalah is characterized by its use of symbolism, metaphor, and allegory to convey profound spiritual truths. * The Kabbalah places a strong emphasis on the importance of **Tikkun Olam**, or the repair of the world. * The Kabbalah is associated with the **Zohar**, a foundational text written by Moses de León in the 13th century. * The Kabbalah has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy, particularly in the areas of mysticism and esotericism. ## Significance The Kabbalah is significant because it provides a rich and complex system of thought that has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy. The Kabbalah has also had a profound impact on Jewish spiritual life, particularly in the areas of mysticism and esotericism. The Kabbalah continues to be studied and practiced today, and its ideas and concepts have influenced a wide range of spiritual and philosophical traditions. INFOBOX: - Name: Kabbalah - Type: Jewish mystical tradition - Date: 13th century (emergence of the Zohar) - Location: Spain and Italy (origin) - Known For: Providing a rich and complex system of thought that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it. TAGS: Jewish mysticism, Kabbalah, Zohar, Tikkun Olam, Gematria, Neoplatonism, Gnosticism, Hermeticism, Hasidic movement, Western spirituality, philosophy, mysticism, esotericism.
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1778569758
The Kabbalah is an ancient Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and human existence through a complex system of symbolism, numerology, and meditation. ## Overview The Kabbalah is a mystical tradition within Judaism that has captivated scholars, philosophers, and spiritual seekers for centuries. At its core, the Kabbalah is a system of thought that seeks to understand the nature of the divine, the universe, and human existence. This esoteric tradition is rooted in the Hebrew Bible and the Talmud, but its teachings and practices have evolved over time, incorporating elements from various philosophical and spiritual traditions. The Kabbalah is characterized by its use of symbolism, numerology, and meditation to reveal the hidden patterns and structures of the universe. The Kabbalah is often associated with the concept of **Ein Sof**, or the infinite, which is the ultimate reality that underlies all existence. The Kabbalah teaches that Ein Sof is beyond human comprehension, but that it can be approached through a series of emanations, or **Sefirot**, which are the divine attributes that manifest in the world. These Sefirot are often depicted as a tree-like structure, with the root of the tree representing Ein Sof and the branches representing the various aspects of the divine. The Kabbalah also emphasizes the importance of the **Tzimtzum**, or the contraction, which is the idea that Ein Sof withdrew from the world to create a space for human existence. This concept is central to the Kabbalistic understanding of the nature of the universe and human existence. ## History/Background The Kabbalah has its roots in ancient Jewish mysticism, with the earliest known texts dating back to the 2nd century CE. However, the modern Kabbalistic tradition as we know it today emerged in the 13th century CE, with the publication of the **Zohar**, a foundational text of Kabbalistic thought. The Zohar is a commentary on the Torah, but it is also a mystical text that explores the nature of the divine and the universe. The Kabbalah was influenced by various philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Neoplatonism, Gnosticism, and Sufism. The Kabbalah also drew upon Jewish mysticism, particularly the teachings of the **Hasidic** movement, which emerged in the 18th century CE. ## Key Information The Kabbalah is known for its complex system of symbolism, numerology, and meditation. Kabbalists use various techniques, such as **Gematria**, or the study of numbers, to reveal the hidden patterns and structures of the universe. They also use **Tarot** cards and other forms of divination to gain insight into the nature of reality. The Kabbalah emphasizes the importance of **Tikkun Olam**, or the repair of the world, which is the idea that human beings have a responsibility to repair the damage that has been done to the world. This concept is central to the Kabbalistic understanding of ethics and morality. ## Significance The Kabbalah has had a profound impact on Jewish thought and culture, influencing various aspects of Jewish life, including spirituality, ethics, and art. The Kabbalah has also influenced Western esotericism, with many modern spiritual traditions drawing upon Kabbalistic ideas and practices. The Kabbalah is significant because it offers a unique perspective on the nature of the divine, the universe, and human existence. Its teachings and practices provide a framework for understanding the complex relationships between the individual, the community, and the world. INFOBOX: - Name: Kabbalah - Type: Jewish Mysticism - Date: 13th century CE - Location: Europe and the Middle East - Known For: Its complex system of symbolism, numerology, and meditation TAGS: Jewish Mysticism, Kabbalah, Zohar, Sefirot, Ein Sof, Tzimtzum, Hasidic Movement, Gematria, Tarot, Tikkun Olam, Western Esotericism, Spirituality, Ethics, Art.
ScienceImmediate_nerddpedia_entry Encyclopedia Entry 1782262386
** The Kabbalah is a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the nature of the divine, the universe, and humanity's place within it, offering a complex and multifaceted system of thought that has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy. **CONTENT:** ## Overview The Kabbalah is a mystical tradition within Judaism that emerged in the Middle Ages, particularly in Spain and southern France. It is based on the idea that the Torah, the central text of Judaism, contains hidden, symbolic meanings that can be deciphered through various techniques and practices. The Kabbalah is often associated with the concept of **Ein Sof**, or the Infinite, which is the ultimate reality that underlies all existence. This tradition has been influential in shaping Jewish thought and practice, as well as Western spirituality and philosophy more broadly. At its core, the Kabbalah is a system of thought that seeks to understand the nature of the divine and the universe. It posits that the universe is composed of a series of interconnected realms, or **Sefirot**, which are emanations of the divine. These Sefirot are often depicted as a tree-like structure, with the root of the tree representing the infinite and the branches representing the various aspects of the divine. The Kabbalah also emphasizes the importance of **Tzimtzum**, or the contraction of the divine, which allows for the creation of the universe and the emergence of human consciousness. The Kabbalah has been influenced by various philosophical and mystical traditions, including Neoplatonism and Gnosticism. It has also been shaped by Jewish mysticism and the study of the Torah. The tradition has been developed and refined over the centuries, with various schools and interpretations emerging. Today, the Kabbalah is studied and practiced by Jews and non-Jews alike, and its influence can be seen in Western spirituality, philosophy, and art. ## History/Background The Kabbalah emerged in the Middle Ages, particularly in Spain and southern France. The earliest known Kabbalistic texts date back to the 13th century, although the tradition itself likely has roots in earlier Jewish mysticism. The Kabbalah gained popularity in the 16th century, particularly in the work of Isaac Luria, a Jewish mystic who developed a new system of thought that emphasized the importance of **Tikkun**, or the rectification of the universe. Luria's teachings were influential in shaping the Kabbalah as we know it today. The Kabbalah was also influenced by the **Ari**, or Isaac Luria, who developed a new system of thought that emphasized the importance of **Tikkun**, or the rectification of the universe. The Ari's teachings were influential in shaping the Kabbalah as we know it today. The Kabbalah was also influenced by the **Chabad**, or the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, a Jewish mystic who emphasized the importance of **Chassidut**, or the inner dimension of the Torah. ## Key Information The Kabbalah is based on the idea that the Torah contains hidden, symbolic meanings that can be deciphered through various techniques and practices. The tradition emphasizes the importance of **Gematria**, or the study of numbers, and **Notarikon**, or the study of letters. The Kabbalah also emphasizes the importance of **Kavanah**, or intention, and **Teshuvah**, or repentance. The Kabbalah has been influential in shaping Jewish thought and practice, as well as Western spirituality and philosophy more broadly. It has been studied and practiced by Jews and non-Jews alike, and its influence can be seen in Western spirituality, philosophy, and art. The Kabbalah has also been influential in the development of various spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Hermeticism and Theosophy. ## Significance The Kabbalah is significant because it offers a complex and multifaceted system of thought that has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of the inner dimension of the Torah and the need for spiritual growth and self-refinement. The Kabbalah has also been influential in shaping Jewish thought and practice, and its teachings continue to be studied and practiced by Jews and non-Jews alike. The Kabbalah is also significant because it offers a unique perspective on the nature of the divine and the universe. It posits that the universe is composed of a series of interconnected realms, or Sefirot, which are emanations of the divine. This idea has been influential in shaping Western spirituality and philosophy, and continues to be studied and practiced today. **INFOBOX:** - Name: The Kabbalah - Type: Jewish Mystical Tradition - Date: 13th century (earliest known Kabbalistic texts) - Location: Spain and southern France (origin) - Known For: Developing a complex and multifaceted system of thought that has influenced Western spirituality and philosophy. **TAGS:** Jewish Mysticism, Kabbalah, Torah, Sefirot, Tzimtzum, Tikkun, Gematria, Notarikon, Kavanah, Teshuvah, Western Spirituality, Philosophy, Hermeticism, Theosophy.