The Way of Splendor: Jewish Mysticism and Modern Psychology

by Edward Hoffman

Dr. Edward Hoffman, a world-renowned thinker and writer in humanistic psychology, reveals how the Kabbalah exerted a profound influence on the establishment and growth of Western psychological thought through such towering thinkers as Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud, and Abraham Maslow. With a new introduction and updated bibliography, The Way of Splendor: The 25th Anniversary begins with an historical presentation of Kabalistic metaphysics and cosmology, then discusses the psychological dimensions of Kabbalah on such topics as dreams, meditation, sexuality, community, health and emotions. The Way of Splendor is a classic yet timely book that shows how to integrate spirituality with counseling, emphasizing the day-to-day relevance of the visionary experience.

Genres: Psychology, Judaism

228 pages, Paperback

First published November 12, 1981

About the author

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Reviews

[Sam Rapkiewicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. As someone who was pretty unfamiliar with both Kabbalah and more in depth psych stuff, they did a good job of explaining everything and I never found myself confused (except for the normal confusion that comes with reading about something like Kabbalah). I appreciate how the author also approaches Kabbalah like we have something to learn from it and not just examining it scientifically.

[Garth · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to the Kabbalah, with occasional gems, but it's more of a broad overview than something you can really sink your teeth into. It also suffers from the 80s New Age tendency to attempt to reconcile mysticism with science (not very convincingly). It contains some neat diagrams and reproductions of Lurianic charts and calligraphy.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-written book about the Kaballah and Jewish mysticism, and how it antedates modern pyschology.

[Michael Wallach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting overview. Especially good for the unaquanted, but has some interesting finds for the person who wants to find new an unique ideas as well. Draws some interesting parallels between judaism and psychology, especially for those interested in the paranormal. Also philosophically represents the unity theme of Judaism pretty well.