Femininity Principle in Ontology of Jewish Mysticism according to the Zohar

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student in Religions and Comparative Mysticism, Faculty of Law, Theology and Islamic Studies, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

2 Profesor of Religions and Comparative Mysticism, Faculty of Law, Theology and Political Science, Sciences and Researches Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant Professor of Religions and Comparative Mysticism, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

4 Assistant Professor of Theology and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Law, Theology and Islamic Studies, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

10.22061/orj.2023.1919

Abstract

Issue of the Femininity principle and its place in different religions has always been considered, but in recent decades due to feminist movements, this issue has also reached to traditional Jewish societies. In all religions, the female element has been considered in creation, but we try to take a descriptive-analytical approach, relying on the book of Zohar, to the Femininity principle in Jewish mysticism. This issue, in the doctrine of Kabbalah and in the book of Zohar, which is the most important mystical book of the Kabbalism more extensively expressed and the Femininity principle with “Bina” and “Malchut” (Shekhinah) Sefirot, particulary has been expressed. Bina and Shekhinah Sefirot are two feminine elements that, by their feminine function in the world, have caused the stream existence in the Universe, and the lower world has been created due to the names and attributes that heavenly Supernal Mother took from Einsof. In the world, union of feminine and masculine elements causes movement and harmony between the components of the Universe. Shekhinah, who is the presence of God and His feminine manifestation, is separated from Einsof due to Adam's sin and explusion to the material world. This issue is so important in Kabbalian mysticism and Kabbalian gnostic recommends the Jews to restore the unity of “Einsof” and “Shekhinah” by performing religions duties and practicing the Torah.

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References

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Journal of Ontological Researches
Volume 12, Issue 23
September 2023

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