In his exquisite and wonderful book, Eitan Fishbane illuminates the ways in which the literary aspects of the Zohar are intimately woven to the core of the Zohar's mystical and interpretive insights. From Fishbane's masterful presentation we learn that the poetic and dramatic dimensions of the Zohar do not serve merely as a narrative frame to its content, but rather they embody, enact and perform the calling of the master of the mystical circle and his disciples. Fishbane's careful and brilliant readings add another dimension of depth and wonder to our encounter with the Zohar and his work is a major contribution to the ongoing exploration of one of the greatest literary and religious achievements of the Jewish tradition.
Eitan P. Fishbane is Assistant Professor of Jewish Thought at the Jewish Theological Seminary.