The Way of Splendor

The poetic imagery and spiritual insights of the Kabbalah, the mystical offshoot of Judaism, have excited the imagination for centuries. One of the distinguishing features of Jewish mysticism is its emphasis on the day-to-day relevance of the visionary experience. Dr. Hoffman elucidates how Kabbalistic ideas as well as Kabbalistic thinkers themselves have exerted a profound influence on the establishment and growth of Western psychological thought. Beginning with a historical evolution and presentation of Kabbalistic metaphysics and cosmology, the main thrust here is on the applicability of its teachings. Such topics as the Kabbalah's views on dreams, meditation, sexuality, community life, diet and health, and the role of human emotions in daily life are explored in detail.

It has been many years since I read - "Way of Splendor" by Dr. Hoffman. As far as I am concerned it still holds up as one of the clearest explanations of Jewish Mysticism among the many other books on the subject.However, what I think distinguishes this book from others is that it is a comparative approach to Kabbalah vis-à-vis eastern philosophy and yoga. Interestingly it does not do this in an overt manner- but in such way that it helps the readers, who are familiar and comfortable with yoga and eastern thought, easily relate to the subject. Dr. Hoffman provides some history on the subject along with clear explanation of its theory and includes techniques of meditation. I think that the title may be a bit misleading to those who may be considering the purchase of The Way of Splendor, as the book really does not focus on psychology as it relates to Kabbalah, although it does refer to it. But in the end, The Way of Splendor is a wonderful introduction to the Kabbalah and therefore, a very good place to start