The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic & Mysticism: Second Edition

If you want to discuss conventional Jewish liturgy, then this might not be the best book to start out with; however, if you want to delve into Jewish mysticism and have no idea where to begin - this book is a great starting point. The book is formatted in a similar fashion to a textbook glossary, but deals with each concept with intricate care and great detail. Whether you want to know the mythological associations between Judaism and Vampirism, the importance of sex in Jewish mysticism, or a detailed analysis into one of the fundamental biblical encounters regarding Ezekiel and the chariot, this book will be great for you. Geoffery Dennis is a Rabbi at Congregation Kol Ami in Flowermound TX, and teaches classes in the Jewish Studies program at the University of North Texas. Part of the Rabbi's mission, as he addressed during a class, that as a reformed Rabbi, he would like to see Judaism become more accessible to the common person. In addition to his credentials, this attitude is employed to explain the more difficult aspects of Jewish thought and clarifies religious jargon, making it easy for the casual reader. For anyone remotely interested in Jewish literature, this is a MUST HAVE companion!

I find this book to be not only a fabulous resource for research but a truly inspirational one as well. It is thoughtfully researched and beautifully written. It opens many spiritual doors with clear, accessible descriptions and allows the reader to look more deeply through intratextual links and excellent, accurate primary source references. A must have for anyone interested in Judaism, Jewish mysticism and symbology.

It blew me and my wife away to realize how much of modern Myth comes from the Jewish culture. When we read the Bible, we see the that the Old Testament Jewish people constantly had problems following false gods and idols. Well this book is like an encyclopedia of these characters. For example, Lilth who appears in modern story lines as teh Queen of the vampires, Mother Earth, ect...first appeared in the Jewish Mythology. Plus this book contains many demons, angels, and other stuff, O.T. demi-gods, and even Cain and every major player in the Torah.

Rabbi Geoffrey W. Dennis' THE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF JEWISH MYTH, MAGIC AND MYSTICISM provides a unique encyclopedia devoted entirely to Jewish mysticism and folklore. Jewish esotericism is the oldest continuous occult tradition in the West, but this encyclopedia represents the first comprehensive treasury of such teachings drawing from Jewish scripture, Talmud, Kabbalah and other esoteric Judaic branches. Over a thousand alphabetical entries include extensive cross-referenced notes, plus a complete bibliography and glossary of terms.

The Encyclopedia of Jewish Myth, Magic and Mysticism provides a much needed accessible reference resource for the crowded field of Jewish mysticism. Although it is an encyclopedia Rabbi Dennis' book is also an entertaining read. It is scholarly in its approach to the material but clearly written for a wide audience. Anyone who enjoys learning about Judaism, mysticism or magic should own a copy. It is a wonderful resource on its own and an invaluable companion for those who are engaged in deeper study.