Sefer Razi’el ha-Mal’akh – A Conduit of Medieval Ashkenazi Culture

Moshe Idel*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This essay examines Sefer Razi’el ha-Mal’akh, a complex work reflecting diverse textual sources and literary layers, as a crucial channel for transmitting early esoteric traditions in Ashkenazi religious culture. It emphasizes the»nominal register« related to the exegesis and uses of divine names as a key part of the Ashkenazi esoteric tradition. The popularity of Sefer Razi’el ha-Mal’akh in Ashkenaz, especially during the Hasidic renaissance, highlights the essential role of practical and magical mentality developed in Ashkenazi culture and traditions. Additionally, a Romanian translation of Sefer Razi’el ha-Mal’akh by Menachem Mendel Stein, who engaged in occult practices during the World War II, showcases the book’s varied reception and long durée.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)225-250
Number of pages26
JournalAschkenas
Volume34
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 31 Dec 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 the author(s).

Keywords

  • divine names
  • Hasidism
  • Jewish magic
  • kabbalah
  • nominal register

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