Ascensions on High in Jewish Mysticism

Based on lectures at Central European University, this book studies images of vertical ascent in Jewish mysticism: the cosmic pillar, the line, the ladder. Idel traces them from late antiquity through Kabbalah and Hasidism and compares them with other religious traditions. It suits readers interested in comparative mysticism and the symbolism of ascent. Its brevity makes it a good introduction to Idel.