Jewish Texts

Is it enough to live up the requirements of Jewish law for one to be holy? Is sanctity in this life possible for all of us—or only for a few saintly people?

Moshe Idel's critique of Gershom Scholem.

The first chapter of the biblical book of Ezekiel served as the textual starting point for the merkavah mystics—and hints at an image of God.

Few post-talmudic works have been as revered as the Zohar, the mystical commentary on the Torah.

The Hasidim wrote and told stories about their leaders.

Jacob flees to his uncle Laban's household and lives there for several years, marrying Laban's daughters, Leah and Rachel, and building a large family.

Following the death of Sara, Abraham purchases a burial plot and sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac.

As Jacob descends to Egypt he calls on the God of Isaac to assure him that this decision is correct.

Like Judah's approach to Joseph, the people of Israel must sometimes remind God of our unique commitment to one another.

As God promises to accompany Jacob into exile, we learn that sometimes the challenge of being fully present and sharing in someone's pain is greater than relieving their suffering.

On his deathbed, Jacob blesses his sons and asks them to bury him in Canaan.