Kabbalah has reaped a wealth of attention, but many argue that the form practiced in Hollywood is more New Age than authentic tradition. Dan offers a dependable account of this religious phenomenon and its impact outside of Judaism. He sheds light on misconceptions and examines its fascinating history, including ancient texts of this tradition. "Culling over fifty years of Kabbalah research, Joseph Dan presents a schematic introduction to Kabbalah, its major periods, personalities, and ideas. This slim volume is a window into the intriguing history of this esoteric wisdom - its Christian and Islamic influences, the proliferation of Christian Kabbalah, its influence on modern philosophy, and the important periods of Jewish heresy. From the ancient world to New Age spirituality, Dan lucidly covers the key ideas of Kabbalah as they developed over the centuries. Accessible, readable, and informative."--Shaul Magid, Indiana University