This chapter evaluates Judah Loew's influence upon the Jewish mystical tradition which succeeded him. Rabbi Loew's writings made a significant impact upon the two major trends in the history of Jewish mysticism which flourished after his death: Sabbateanism and Hasidism. One may discover Loew's influences in the writings of Nathan of Gaza, the principal Sabbatean theologian. Indeed, Nathan's...
This chapter focuses on the relationship between Judah Loew's theological constructs and his program for social reform. By intertwining his mystical theology with his social dissent, Judah Loew follows a pattern characteristic of the Western mystical tradition in general and of the Jewish mystical tradition in particular. The chapter then explores Loew's views on contemporary social issues,...
This chapter examines Judah Loew's understanding of devekut (“cleaving to God”). It traces the development of major aspects of the idea of devekut in sources which most probably influenced him. These sources include Maimonides' reflections on the nature of devekut; the two views of devekut developed by the Spanish mystics; and the Hasidic understanding of devekut. Judah Loew claimed that...