Judah Loew and the Jewish Mystical Tradition: Introductory Remarks

This chapter evaluates Judah Loew's influence upon the Jewish mystical tradition which succeeded him. Rabbi Loew's writings made a significant impact upon the two major trends in the history of Jewish mysticism which flourished after his death: Sabbateanism and Hasidism. One may discover Loew's influences in the writings of Nathan of Gaza, the principal Sabbatean theologian. Indeed, Nathan's idea of salvation by faith rather than by deeds, an atypical notion in the history of Jewish messianism, may be traced directly to Loew's treatise on messianism. More profound and direct than his influence on Sabbateanism, however, was Judah Loew's impact upon Hasidism. Not only his literary style, but also many of Rabbi Loew's attitudes and views echo throughout Hasidic literature. Hasidic interest in Judah Loew reached its acme in the Przysucha-Kotsk school. One may also discern some influence of Judah Loew upon at least two additional Hasidic figures: Shneur Zalman of Liady and Gershon Hanokh Leiner of Radzyn.