Kabbalah is a centuries-old branch of Jewish mysticism that focuses on the nature of God, creation, the universe, and our roles in it all. Its teachings stem mostly from religious texts like the Torah alongside many concepts from scholars over the past several hundred years. When it comes to the nature of God and creation, Kabbalah has many schools of thought. Read below for a brief overview of the main points of how Kabbalah explores the nature of God and creation.
The Concept of Ein Sof
One of the most common phrases in Kabbalah teachings is Ein Sof, which directly translates to “without end”. This concept is used when referring to the infinite, limitless, and largely unknowable nature of God. When we try to conceptualize God as a being, it is difficult to do because the entity that is God cannot be contained to a simple definition of existence like humans can.
That is why Ein Sof is a pillar in the teachings of Kabbalah because once people accept that the nature of God is infinite, then other aspects of the belief system can fall into place. The teachings of Laitman, a contemporary Kabbalist, state that these basic principles of Kabbalah still have resonance and can be used to guide believers today. To know that there is a limitless entity that has a presence in all corners of the Earth and universe gives comfort to many people and helps them make moral decisions.
The Tree of Life
With the concept of God being infinite and without end solidified in the Kabbalistic belief system, the idea of the tree of life comes into play to explain how, with infinite power and ability, God has multiple manifestations in the universe. Like the roots or branches of a tree, the power of God extends into all aspects of life on Earth and in other realms. The tree of life is a familiar symbol, not only in the teachings of Kabbalah but in other religious practices as well. The idea of a powerful deity who can reach out and touch every individual life helps believers have a more tangible concept of a benevolent God.
The Role of Human Souls
The creation of the human soul aligns with general beliefs in the overall creation of Earth and the universe. According to the teachings of Kabbalah, each human soul is a spark of the divine and has a connection to the divine soul of God. Because of this, followers believe that while on Earth, we should focus on the goal that eventually our soul will be reunited with the divine in eternity. To do this, Kabbalists aim to live a life of spiritual practices, studying mystical teachings, and living ethically in order to feel closer to God while on Earth.
The nature of God and creation are concepts that differ from group to group around the world. We all hope to have a better understanding of God and the universe, so if the teachings of Kabbalah appeal to you, it is never too late to start learning about this established branch of Jewish mysticism.