Sefer Yetzirah

The Book of Creation In Theory and Practice

The Sefer Yetzirah is perhaps the oldest and most mysterious of all kabbalistic texts. In this landmark work of mystical studies, Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan brings the text’s theoretical, meditative, and magical implications to light.

The book explores the dynamics of the spiritual domain, the worlds of the sefirot, souls and angels. Rabbi Kaplan explains that when properly understood the Sefer Yetzirah becomes an instruction manual for a very special type of meditation meant to strengthen concentration and to aid in the development of telekinetic and telepathic powers. Through the use of various signs, incantations, and divine names, initiates could also influence or alter natural events.

This translation includes the meditation in five dimensions, the transition from binah to chakhmah consciousness, the point of infinity, kabbalistic astrology, Ezekiel’s vision according to the Sefer Yetzirah, and the mystery of the 231 gates. Also included is a digest of all major commentaries on the text of the Sefer Yetzirah and a bibliography of many of the major kabbalistic works that discus it, as well as extensive notes regarding the various aspects of the translation. Rabbi Kaplan’s translation is based on the Gra version of the text, which is thought to eb the most authentic. Also included is the short version, the long version, and the Saadia version, making this volume the most complete work on the Sefer Yetzirah available in English.

Details:

ISBN# 9780877288558
Paperback, 424 pages.
Publisher: Red Wheel Weiser, Published: May 1997
Size: 5.0 x 1.1 x 8.8 inches, Weight: 1.5 Lbs.

Author

Aryeh Kaplan
(1934 - 1983)

Aryeh Moshe Eliyahu Kaplan, born Leonard Kaplan, was an American Orthodox rabbi, theoretical physicist, and author noted for bridging traditional Jewish scholarship with modern science. He authored over 50 works, including The Living Torah, Jewish Meditation, and landmark translations of Sefer Yetzirah and The Bahir, making Kabbalistic and mystical texts accessible in English. Kaplan applied scientific precision to his translations, distinguishing clearly between source text and commentary, and was influential in the baal teshuva movement. His legacy endures in Jewish education and spiritual renewal.