Learn the Symbolic Code of Divine Reality and Spiritual Transformation
Kabbalah is a spiritual science written in symbolic language. To grasp its wisdom, one must first understand its sacred terminology, metaphoric structure, and cosmological system. This course serves as an essential introduction to the “language” of Kabbalah—a precise vocabulary of Hebrew words, coded phrases, allegories, and spiritual diagrams that describe the flow of divine energy from the Infinite to creation.
Using the seminal work “Inner Space” by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan as our primary textbook, students will explore the essential concepts and terms that form the foundation of authentic Kabbalistic study. Rabbi Kaplan, a masterful interpreter of Lurianic Kabbalah, presents these teachings in a structured and accessible way that makes this deep wisdom understandable for modern seekers while remaining faithful to the tradition.
In this course, students will explore:
The meaning and significance of the Sefirot and Partzufim
The Four Worlds (Atzilut, Beriah, Yetzirah, Asiyah) and their relationship to human consciousness
The concepts of Ohr (light), Kelim (vessels), and Tzimtzum (divine contraction)
The Tree of Life as a multidimensional map of existence
Symbolic expressions such as “ascending lights,” “breaking of the vessels,” and “rectification”
The metaphysical role of the soul, language, and mitzvot in cosmic repair
By learning the symbolic system of Kabbalah, students gain a key that unlocks deeper texts and concepts—laying the groundwork for serious spiritual growth and future advanced study. Whether your goal is to decode Zoharic passages, understand Lurianic diagrams, or refine your perception of reality, this class will equip you with the language and thought structure of the Kabbalists.
This course is ideal for both beginners and intermediate students of Jewish mysticism who seek a clear, grounded, and authentic entry into the vocabulary of the sages.
Course Workload and Expectations
This is a 3-credit, 12-week seminary-level course requiring approximately 6–9 hours of engagement per week. Students will be immersed in a structured program designed to develop both academic comprehension and spiritual fluency in the foundational language of Kabbalah. Weekly expectations include:
Assigned textbook readings from Inner Space by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan, supplemented with source excerpts from classical Kabbalistic works
Video lectures that explain and visually illustrate key concepts and diagrams
Written assignments and term vocabulary reviews to internalize new terminology and symbolic structures
Short essays to synthesize learned concepts with Torah passages and real-world application
Journaling and diagram-drawing exercises to map personal insight and comprehension of the Kabbalistic system
Weekly check-ins and discussion board participation to reflect, ask questions, and deepen understanding with guidance from course administrators
Final integrative project, such as a glossary or thematic map of Kabbalistic terms, demonstrating a working command of the language
This course meets the standards of graduate-level spiritual education. It bridges intellectual mastery with experiential insight, and prepares students for deeper study of original Kabbalistic texts.
This course is also available for 100% online, self-paced personal study, and may be purchased individually for those seeking personal spiritual growth and character development outside of a formal degree program. Mentorship is available for this course at an additional cost.
NOTE: This class is temporarily unavailable to new students until AFTER you've completed the prerequisite class: Spiritual Attainment in Jewish Kabbalah.