A Gateway to Radiance: Opening to the Mysteries of the Zohar

Wednesdays, February 21, 28, March 6, 13, 20, and 27

7:30-9:00 pm Central Time

How did a challenging and complex work of esoteric wisdom capture the imagination of the Jewish world, and why was it written? The Zohar is considered the essential work of Jewish mysticism, and one of only three Jewish literary works, in addition to the Torah and the Talmud, designated as “holy.” In this class, we will focus on understanding what the Zohar is and why it is considered the essential work of Jewish mythos and mysticism.

The Zohar is an invitation to engage in a journey of spiritual awakening. The joy of learning Zohar lies in following the stream of its mystical interpretations of Torah, and encountering the central ideas of its mystical understanding, especially the idea that Ein Sof, the Infinite Unbounded Oneness, manifests in ten sefirot – dynamic elements of Divine energy that constantly move between separation and union. To receive its meaning, we must open both the gates of intellect and the gates of imagination.

Our learning will focus on discussion and inquiry of texts from the Zohar as well as other relevant sources. In addition, we’ll utilize both chanting and meditation to deepen our understanding of the Zohar’s concepts and how they might speak to us on our spiritual journeys. All texts will be in English and no special background is required. All you need to bring is your curiosity, and an open heart and mind