Topic: The Jewish Mystical Tradition

TimeDaysLocationInstructorGERCreditOPUS Class NumberSyllabus (Tentative)
8:30am-9:45am
TuTh
Candler Library 212
David Blumenthal. HAP. 42165 TBA.

January 12, 2011- April 25, 2011

Crosslisted: JS353-000.

Catalog Description: Mystical texts, themes, practices, and rituals, focusing on selected mystical authors. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.

Semester Details:

Jewish mysticism is one of the core dimensions of Judaism. This course will study four main streams of mysticism within rabbinic Judaism through a close reading of texts in translation. The final unit will be devoted to contemporary forms of Jewish mysticism. In addition we will try to define Jewish mysticism and its relation to other forms of Jewish spirituality.

We will read the central texts closely and consider the nature of mysticism and spirituality.

Everyone is expected to have a hevruta  (study partner) and to meet regularly.

Class participation is expected.

We will have several Open Classes for general discussion.

One final exam / paper.

Required Textbooks, Articles, and Resources

  1. Blumenthal, D. Understanding Jewish Mysticism.
  2. Blumenthal, D. God at the Center.

The schedule of courses on O.P.U.S. is the official listing of courses, including days and times they meet and the General Education Requirements they satisfy. Students should use course descriptions as general guidelines. Course requirements, grading details, book lists, and syllabi are subject to change.