- Traditional view: The Zohar is the work of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, passed down secretly until revealed in the Middle Ages.
- Academic view: Moses de León is likely the author or redactor, composing or compiling the text in the 13th century.
Despite these debates, the Zohar’s spiritual authority remains strong in many Jewish communities.
Influence and Legacy
The Zohar profoundly influenced Jewish liturgy, philosophy, and mysticism. Its concepts of divine emanation and the interplay of light and darkness permeated Kabbalistic thought and ritual practice. The text also inspired Christian mystics and later Western esotericism.
Even today, the Zohar is studied by scholars and mystics alike, offering a rich spiritual tradition that continues to shape Jewish identity and religious experience.
Conclusion
The Book of Zohar stands as a monumental work bridging biblical exegesis and mystical theology. Whether seen as a 2nd-century revelation or a 13th-century mystical masterpiece, it remains a cornerstone of Jewish spirituality and a testament to the enduring human quest for divine understanding. shutdown123