What does cabbalism mean?
Cabbalism is the name for the Jewish mystical tradition better known as the Kabbalah. It concerns the interpretation of sacred texts through symbolic correspondences, meditation, and the disclosure of spiritual truths to those considered prepared to receive them. In modern discussion, the word is usually historical, scholarly, or religious rather than everyday, and it should not be confused with cabal, a secret group engaged in plotting. Cabbalism is also distinct from popular images of occult magic: although Kabbalistic texts and practices have sometimes been represented through angels, seals, and amulets, the tradition is rooted in Jewish exegesis and contemplative practice. The name ultimately comes from Hebrew qabbālāh, meaning “received thing” or “tradition,” emphasizing teachings handed down or transmitted to initiates. For readers of history, religion, and intellectual culture, Cabbalism is useful because it illuminates how mystical interpretation, textual symbolism, and esotericism shaped Jewish and, later, some Christian intellectual life. Its associations with secrecy can make the term sound more mysterious than its scholarly usage requires.
nounThe Jewish mystical tradition known as the Kabbalah, particularly its esoteric teachings and methods of interpreting sacred texts.
- The body of esoteric Jewish mystical teachings known as the Kabbalah, including methods of interpreting sacred texts through symbolic and contemplative traditions.
"The seminar examined Cabbalism as a form of Jewish mysticism rather than a branch of ceremonial magic."
"The lecture examined Cabbalism as a form of Jewish mysticism rather than a branch of ceremonial magic."
"Across several centuries, scholars have debated Cabbalism's influence on later Christian mysticism."
Rare; used when referring to distinct forms or traditions of Cabbalism.
"The historian compared cabbalisms transmitted in different medieval communities."
The name “Kabbalah” means “received tradition,” a reminder that Cabbalism concerns transmitted wisdom rather than improvised magic.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does cabbalism come from?
Cabbalism descends from Latin cabala, a learned borrowing of Hebrew qabbālāh, literally “received thing” and hence “tradition.” The Hebrew term refers to esoteric teaching transmitted through an authorized lineage. European writers used Latin and English forms including cabala and cabalism before the double-b spelling cabbalism became established alongside the English name Kabbalah.
Related word forms
How cabbalism is actually used
This is a specialized, usually formal term common in Jewish studies and the history of religion. It is normally treated as an uncountable noun, and plural forms are rare.
Easily confused with cabbalism
A cabal is a secret group or conspiracy, whereas cabbalism is the Jewish mystical tradition known as the Kabbalah.