Jewish Magic and Superstition

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

Jewish Magic and Superstition

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

Joshua Trachtenberg offers a comprehensive review of Jewish magic and superstition from the 10th to 15th centuries, exploring Golems, Succubi, amulets, and charms. This scholarly work illuminates the folk religion of medieval Germanic Jewry, revealing how common superstitions coexisted with official religious law and shaped the everyday spiritual life of the people.

Summary up to 500 words

In 'Jewish Magic and Superstition,' Joshua Trachtenberg offers a comprehensive examination of the beliefs and practices of medieval Germanic Jewry from the 11th to the 16th centuries. Trachtenberg distinguishes between the official religious stance of the Synagogue and the 'folk religion' embraced by the common people. He argues that Jews were not isolated from their environment but were deeply influenced by broader European culture, adopting and adapting ideas regarding demons, angels, and magic. The text covers a wide array of topics, including the legend of Jewish sorcery, the nature of evil spirits, the use of the Bible in magic, and specific magical procedures. Trachtenberg draws extensively from Talmudic, Geonic, and medieval literature, noting that while rabbis sought to eradicate or transmute offensive magical features, these folk practices persisted due to their popularity. The work highlights specific customs, such as protective measures during circumcision, wedding rituals designed to appease demons, and practices surrounding death and burial intended to confuse spirits. By analyzing these 'vagaries,' Trachtenberg aims to provide a complete picture of the inner life of the medieval Jewish people, demonstrating that their culture reflected and influenced the forces operative in general medieval Europe. The book serves as a significant contribution to the history of thought, showing how superstition and magic constitute a universal chapter in human progress.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/joshua-trachtenberg_jewish-magic-and-superstition.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Esoteric and Occult