Rabbi Ishmael Asks How to Behold the Merkavah

Heikhalot Rabbati 1:1

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·March 24, 2026

Said Rabbi Ishmael: What are those songs which he recites who would behold the vision of the Merkaba, who would descend in peace and would ascend in peace?

Themes

Patriarchs Prophecy Merkavah

Continue Reading

Life of Adam and EveAdam Is Taken Into ParadiseOne such story, preserved in Vita Adae et Evae (The Life of Adam and Eve), tells of a remarkable vision. It's a bit obscure, not as well-known as other heavenly Legends of the JewsTreachery PunishedHer story takes a dramatic turn in Legends of the Jews by Louis Ginzberg, and it involves treachery, divine intervention, and a whole lot of pebbles! Asenath, s Heikhalot RabbatiRabbi Ishmael's Strict Rules for Beholding the ChariotIt's a wild ride, full of visions and intense spiritual experiences. And it raises a fascinating question: what happens when you encounter something so much gre Heikhalot RabbatiRabbi Ishmael Reveals the Perils of AscentIt's not as simple as closing your eyes and meditating. According to ancient mystical texts, it's a perilous journey, fraught with dangers both seen and unseen.Book of JubileesThe First TorahThe familiar picture has Moses on Mount Sinai, receiving the divine word directly from God. Forty days and forty nights of dictation. But what if I told you the Genesis Apocryphon (1QapGen)Abraham In EgyptThe land was barren. A terrible famine gripped the region, forcing Abraham and Sarah to seek refuge in Egypt. They first tried Hebron, but the hunger was everyw