This is a translation from the critical Aramaic text of the "Zohar". This
volume, together with volume two, covers more than half of the "Zohar's"
commentary on the "Book of Genesis" (through Genesis 32:3).The first two volumes of "The Zohar", Pritzker edition, cover more than
half of the "Zohar"'s commentary on the Book of Genesis (through Genesis 32:3).
This is the first translation ever made from a critical Aramaic text of the
"Zohar", which has been established by Professor Matt based on a wide range of
original manuscripts. The extensive commentary, appearing at the bottom of each
page, clarifies the kabbalistic symbolism and terminology, and cites sources
and parallels from biblical, rabbinic, and kabbalistic texts. The translator's
introduction is accompanied by a second introduction written by Arthur Green,
discussing the origin and significance of the "Zohar"; "Sefer ha-Zohar", "The Book of Radiance", has amazed and overwhelmed
readers ever since it emerged mysteriously in mediaeval Spain toward the end of
the 13th century. Written in a unique Aramaic, this masterpiece of Kabbalah
exceeds the dimensions of a normal book; it is virtually a body of literature,
comprising over 20 discrete sections. The bulk of the "Zohar" consists of a
running commentary on the Torah, from Genesis through Deuteronomy. This
translation begins and focuses here in what are projected to be ten volumes.
Two subsequent volumes will cover other, shorter sections. The "Zohar"'s
commentary is composed in the form of a mystical novel. The hero is Rabbi
Shim'on son of Yohai, a saintly disciple of Rabbi Akiva who lived in the 2nd
century in the land of Israel. In the "Zohar", Rabbi Shim'on and his companions
wander through the hills of Galilee, discovering and sharing secrets of
Torah.; On one level, biblical figures such as Abraham and Sarah are the main
characters, and the mystical companions interpret their words, actions and
personalities. On a deeper level, th
