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Definition:
The Zohar (Sefer ha-Zohar) is the "Book of Splendor" and is the main literary
work for kabbalists. The principle author for the Zohar, which is actually a
collection of works, was Moses de Leon (also known as Moses ben Shemtov de Leon
of Granda and lived during the 12th century CE) who lived and worked in Spain.
However, the book is pseudoepigraphically attributed to the Palestinian tanna
Simeon bar Yohai (2nd century CE), sometimes also known as RaShBaY (Rabbi Shimeon
bar Yohai).
The Zohar itself is a record of intense messianic longing. According to its text, the entire universe is the stage for a battle between good and evil as Gods creatures struggle to overcome sin and reunite with God in peace and harmony. This resotration is the goal of humans, but it will only come about for everyone with the advent of the Messiah. However, in the meantime we can make our own contributions by engaging in prayer, fasts, and the study of the Torah.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Theism?
What is the difference between monotheism and monolatry? Between pantheism and panentheism? How about between animism and shamanism? Or theism and deism? What the heck is henotheism? For that matter, what is and is not a religion?What is Religion?
A system of human beliefs, ideals and practices which is harder to define than it may at first appear.
