‘The Dybbuk: Its Origins and History (Western Esotericism in Context)’ is an academic exploration of one of Jewish mysticism’s most enduring and mysterious figures—the Dybbuk. This deeply researched book dives into the folklore, religious significance, and cultural impact of the Dybbuk, a malevolent possessing spirit, which has fascinated scholars and artists for centuries. The book traces the concept from its earliest mentions in Jewish texts, through the Kabbalistic interpretations of the 16th and 17th centuries, and into the cultural imagination of the modern world, including its impact on theater, film, and psychoanalysis.
Composed with academic rigor, the author presents primary sources alongside interpretations from major thinkers in Jewish mysticism. The work is rich with citations and includes both historical accounts and modern analyses, making it suitable for both scholars and informed lay readers interested in religious studies, folklore, or psychology. By situating the Dybbuk in its esoteric context, the book reveals how this spirit came to embody both fear and fascination within Jewish and global culture.
This book is typically used in religious studies courses, Jewish cultural studies, and by researchers or enthusiasts interested in the occult or paranormal. While it does not serve a commercial or practical purpose in the conventional sense, its academic and historical value is significant.
On platforms like Amazon, the book is often priced within the mid-range for academic texts, generally between $25 to $40, depending on edition and availability. Given its focus, the target audience includes university students, professors, and readers exploring mystical or supernatural themes in religion and literature.
Altogether, this is a thorough and thoughtful contribution to the field of esoteric religious history, offering both depth and clarity.
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