Metempsychosis, Metensomatosis and Metamorphosis: On Rabbi Joseph ben Shalom Ashkenazi's Systematic Theory of Reincarnation

Jonathan Schnytzer

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the concept of reincarnation (gilgul neshamot) in general and particularly through the writings of Rabbi Joseph Ben Shalom Ashkenazi, the first kabbalist to write systematically on this phenomenon. The transmigration of creations, seen by R. Joseph as the manifestation of God's truth and justice, is termed 'Din Bnei Halof' (The Judgment of those who transmigrate). Understanding the main concepts in R. Joseph's works and the difference between them, 'Shelakh', 'Gilgul' and 'Ibbur', with regard to the body, soul (neshama) and its parts, will contribute to the discussion revolving around the general phrase for reincarnation (gilgul neshamot) in Kabbalah.
Original languageAmerican English
Pages (from-to)215-238
JournalKabbalah; Journal for the Study of Jewish Mystical Texts
Volume45
StatePublished - 2019

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