These teachings are held by Kabbalists to define the inner meaning of both the Hebrew Bible and traditional rabbinic literature and their formerly concealed transmitted dimension, as well as to explain the significance of Jewish religious observances. Jewish Kabbalists originally developed their own transmission of sacred texts within the realm of Jewish tradition and often use classical Jewish scriptures to explain and demonstrate its mystical teachings. It forms the foundation of mystical religious interpretations within Judaism. Jewish Kabbalah is a set of esoteric teachings meant to explain the relationship between the unchanging, eternal God-the mysterious Ein Sof ( אֵין סוֹף‎, 'The Infinite') -and the mortal, finite universe (God's creation). The definition of Kabbalah varies according to the tradition and aims of those following it, from its origin in medieval Judaism to its later adaptations in Western esotericism ( Christian Kabbalah and Hermetic Qabalah). A traditional Kabbalist is called a Mekubbal ( מְקוּבָּל‎ Məqūbbāl 'receiver'). Kabbalah ( Hebrew: קַבָּלָה Qabbālā, literally 'reception, tradition' ) is an esoteric method, discipline and school of thought in Jewish mysticism. The roots of surrealism and many other more recent artistic movements can be found in this treasure trove.Kabbalistic prayer book from Italy, 1803.

Each richly illustrated chapter begins with an introduction and quotes from alchemists by specialist Alexander Roob.

Even for those with no knowledge of the fascinating history of alchemy, this book is a delight to explore.

The enigmatic hieroglyphs of cabalists, Rosicrucians, and freemasons are shown to be closely linked with the early scientific illustrations in the fields of medicine, chemistry, optics, and color theory. The Hermetic Museum takes readers on a magical mystery tour spanning an arc from the medieval cosmogram and images of Christian mysticism, through the fascinating world of alchemy to the art of the Romantic era.

From early Christian mystics to the illustrations of William Blake and the Romantics, this collection spans science, philosophy, and otherworldly mystery over the ages. Fables, folklore, and fantasy-this compendium of all things alchemical and mystical gathers centuries of esoteric mythology in the form of writings, drawings, paintings, and prints.

Alchemy & mysticism the hermetic museum