Tzfat

Our travel to the holy city of Tzfat was an incredible experience. The city itself is beautiful, with shady, narrow streets and bright buildings. We learned about mysticism in Tzfat while touring a synagogue and candle-making business. After touring the city and beginning a discussion about Kabbalah, we went to talk with Avraham Loewenthal, a Kabbalist artist who shared his personal experiences of Kabbalah with us. Whether or not we agree with the teachings of Kabbalah, Avraham's words resonated with many of us. Avraham talked about the magic of the tradition of Judaism; the power that lies in knowing our experiences as Jews are shared with others all over the world, from thousands of years ago, now and into the future. Avraham told us how his study of Judaism - through Kabbalah - helped him connect with his personal identity, and is an ongoing process continually helping him to evolve as a person. He also explained that the core teaching of Kabbalah is to reach a state of enlightenment achieved only when we stop wanting for ourselves, instead giving to others. The Kabbalah teachings are represented all around his art studio in his paintings. Avraham reminded all of us of the importance of connecting with our history, of study and of giving to others. It was aweeeeesoooome....