Ancient Jewish Magic: A History

by Gideon Bohak

Gideon Bohak gives a pioneering account of the broad history of ancient Jewish magic, from the Second Temple to the rabbinic period. It is based both on ancient magicians' own compositions and products in Aramaic, Hebrew and Greek, and on the descriptions and prescriptions of non-magicians, to reconstruct a historical picture that is as balanced and nuanced as possible. The main focus is on the cultural make-up of ancient Jewish magic, and special attention is paid to the processes of cross-cultural contacts and borrowings between Jews and non-Jews, as well as to inner-Jewish creativity. Other major issues explored include the place of magic within Jewish society, contemporary Jewish attitudes to magic, and the identity of its practitioners. Throughout, the book seeks to explain the methodological underpinnings of all sound research in this demanding field, and to highlight areas where further research is likely to prove fruitful.

Genres: Judaism, History, Jewish, Nonfiction, Religion, Magic, Judaica

494 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2008

Reviews

[Maggie Anton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is rare to find a nonfiction, scholarly book that is not only informative, but well-written and enjoyable. Bohak adds just a touch of humor to make this possibly dry topic a pleasure to read. His view that history of Jewish magic is nothing to be ashamed of or glossed-over by traditional scholars, but a legitimate aspect of ancient Jewish practice. I only wish he'd included information on Babylonia and its magic practitioners.

[Juzám Djinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very comprehensive analysis of the early history of Jewish magic. I found it compelling and enjoyable. Although personally, I would have enjoyed some more transcriptions/translations of actual magic -perhaps from a Geniza or manuscript, this does not take away from the quality of this book. I think begininers and advanced students of mysticism in general will enjoy this book.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly readable, with writing that at times is even funny. But it still feels like an academic work and often is very meta — less about the magic and more about the limitations faced by folks who study its history, and about all the things it is not or all the things unknown about it.

[Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction into the jewish side of ancient magic, a much neglected field of study despite - or just because of - the flourishing field of the academic study of jewish mysticism. Bohak combines careful examination of details without being exactly a case study with a neat survey without overgeneralizations. Ironically it is only the definition of magic, three times attempted, he always fails to deliver - of course, there are reasons why magic cannot be reasonably defined. But there are methods to do so regardless. This doesn't really diminish the use of this study and it is a pleasure to see, or rather read, Bohak's dedication and affection for his field.