The Visionary

Abstract

AbstractA notable feature of Halevi’s religious poetry is its frequent depictions of spiritual experience in visual terms. Some of Halevi’s visionary imagery derives from the ancient Jewish tradition of merkava mysticism, some from the philosophical tradition. But Sufi literature may also have played a part in providing Halevi with his mature conception of the ultimate goal of religious striving. Similarly, a number of important poems depict dreams, considered a form of prophecy; it is a dream that sets the narrative of framework of the Kuzari into motion. The chapter concludes with five poems illustrating visionary experience and dreams. Of these poems, one is a report of a prophetic experience of Halevi himself proclaiming the redemption of Israel; one depicts the poet’s aspiration for a personal vision of God; and one envisions the poet in the Temple.