- "There is a striking affinity between the symbolism of Sefer ha-Bahir, on the one hand, and the speculations of the Gnostics, and the theory of the "aeons," on the other. The fundamental problem in the study of the book is: is this affinity based on an as yet unknown historical link between the Gnosticism of the mishnaic and talmudic era and the sources from which the material in Sefer ha-Bahir is derived? Or should it possibly be seen as a purely psychological phenomenon, i.e., as a spontaneous upsurge from the depths of the soul's imagination, without any historical continuity?
- – "Bahir", Encyclopedia Judaica "
Excellent question. More on the Bahir, and a tip o' the yarmulke to the Soferet.
1 comments:
BS"D
Thank for the link, Jordan :)
"Bahir" can also mean brilliance, whiteness, or clarity.
It's known as the light that is not only physical but also the Supernal Light of Creation: Yehi Or, "Let the be Light". The Light that G@d created before the sun or stars were made.
I'm going for the spontaneous urge from the depths of the soul's imagination.
Post a Comment