Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life

Why have so many spiritual seekers turned to the teachings of Jewish mysticism in recent years? What is it about Kabbalah and Hasidism that has so captured the imagination of unprecedented numbers of Jewish and non-Jewish readers and practitioners? In this unique volume, leading scholars and teachers of the Jewish mystical tradition share their favorite texts¿some available in English for the first time¿ and explore why they think these materials are meaningful and relevant to contemporary life. The rich combination of classical texts and contemporary reflections provides both the newcomer and the seasoned reader with a beautiful array of inspirational and thought-provoking materials for contemplation, discussion and action. Organized thematically, each section of the book focuses on a different dimension of the spiritual life, including prayer and meditation, interpersonal relations, Torah study and ritual observance. This is an invitation to enter into the esoteric worlds of past Jewish thinkers and to engage with today¿s best interpreters in exploring how these sources might help us in our quest for meaning here and now.