Description
Book SynopsisAn updated and expanded examination into the groundbreaking exploration and connection of two of the most powerful mystical traditions. Patterns in our lives may escape us; reasons for our behavior often confuse us. To help us better understand the interplay of these dynamics, Rabbi Howard A. Addison combines two of the most powerful maps of consciousness known to humanity: the Tree of Life (the sefirot) from the Jewish mystical tradition of Kabbalah, and the nine-pointed Enneagram that was developed over several generations by mystics of several spiritual traditions. Individually, each offers guidance and wisdom; together, they show the forces that propel us and shape our personalities and behavior. Most important, the two suggest how we can live more harmoniously with ourselves and with others, minimize friction and tension and discover our own spiritual gateway to God. In this updated and expanded edition of his pioneering book, Rabbi Addison explores new understandings of the stages and pitfalls we experience along life's journey and the ways we can transcend the limits of our personalities in search of greater wholeness. He shows that, when brought together, the Enneagram and Kabbalah may enhance understanding of humanity's deepest motivations—both individually and collectively—thus opening wider the gate to personal growth.
Trade ReviewThe Enneagram, and Kabbalah: Reading Your Soul 2nd ed. by Rabbi Howard A. Addison. Combined here are two of the most powerful maps of consciousness known to humanity: the Tree of Life and the nine-pointed Enneagram. Here we are helped to see patterns in our lives and the interplay they have with the reasons behind those patterns. * The Messenger *
Table of ContentsPreface to the Second Edition v Preface to the First Edition vii Acknowledgments xi Section I Two Diagrams of Life 1 "Where Are You?" 3 2 The Tree of Life 9 3 The Enneagram 19 4 Correlation—Being and Spirit 35 Section II The Enneagram through the Lens of Kabbalah 5 The Sefirot: Type and Redemption through Spiritual Task 47 6 Point One: Chochmah—Wisdom 53 7 Point Two: Binah—Understanding 61 8 Point Three: Gedulah—Greatness 69 9 Point Four: Tiferet—Beauty 77 10 Point Five: Din—Rigor 87 11 Point Six: Netsach—The Enduring 97 12 Point Seven: Hod—Splendor 105 13 Point Eight: Yesod—Basic Force 115 14 Point Nine: Shechinah—Divine Presence 123 Section III Returning to God 15 Keter: Divine Crown, Our Transition to the Divine 135 16 A Meditation on the Return to Ayn Sof 143 Epilogue 155 Endnotes 159 Glossary 165 Suggested Readings 169
