Hillel Ben-Sasson

Understanding YHWH is a historical overview of the development of Jewish thought concerning the famous Tetragrammaton. The scope is from the early Biblical accounts to the Medieval Kabbalists, which covers plenty of ground.

The first part covers Biblical and Rabbinic thought with the "YHVH vs. Ehyeh asher Ehyeh" making the first section. Rabbinic exegesis and the nomothetic response to this exegesis informs the later sections. This gives a scripturally grounded basis for many arguments and themes that are expounded upon by later thinkers.

Part two is similarly divided between Medieval Jewish Theology and Medieval Jewish Kabbalists. Remarkably intertwined and incredibly diverse thought begins to flourish in this section with various Rabbi's and other Mystics, Theologians, and Philosophers informing a tapestry of argument and knowledge.

I originally picked up this title due to the presence of the Tetragrammaton in the Western Mystery Traditions. As it is a phrase used in so many ways by so many traditions, I felt it was appropriate to take a deeper look. Hillel Ben-Sasson did a wonderful job of clearly representing the thought and context of many personages surrounding this enigmatic name. He presents the various viewpoints clearly and without any noticeable bias, letting the figures represented argue amongst each other instead of with the author. This approach not only helped me understand the subject of YHVH on a much deeper level, but also helped to illustrate just how diverse and rich the philosophy surrounding it is.

In particular, Jewish Kabbalah is often represented to Hermetic Qabalists as the more authoritative, monolithic, stable, and "true" Kabbalah. The development and differences within Jewish Kabbalah help dispel this myth and reveals Jewish Kabbalah as dynamic, varied, and dialectical; perhaps more so than it's Hermetic offspring. This is all from arguments surrounding the name of God alone, and I'm sure further inquiry reveals further variety.

I also found the sections on the astral theology of the name and negative theology very informative to my current practices and mode of expression. I am more than certain that others reading through this book will find sections quite relevant to themselves as well. Highly recommended.… (més)