Reason, Law and Mysticism

The legal aspect of the Torah has been described by Kabbalists as concealing a deeper, more mystical dimension. But Mitnagdic and Chassidic thinkers both argued—in similar but different ways—that study of legal topics “for its own sake” could itself embody a mystic purpose. But what is the nature of that purpose?

When Jews study holy texts together, they do not always agree on their interpretation. A look at how arguing over the Torah can actually bring us closer together.

Can Maimonides' intellectual approach be characterized as rationalistic or mystical? Is there evidence that he studied and even embraced kabbalistic teachings?

Is there tension between spirituality and law? At first glance, it may seem difficult to reconcile the mystical and legalistic traditions within Judaism as represented by kabbalistic and Talmudic texts respectively. Professor Sandman offers an integrated view of the two.