New Connexions - September/October, 2002
I must admit that I was surprised at the depth with which I connected with this elegantly simple little book and pack of cards. It has been my constant companion during the past three months, encouraging and challenging me through major surgery and the frustrating tedium of convalescence. Richard Seidman successfully marries the ancient rooted wisdom of mystical Judaism with the adventurous and inclusive spirit of the New Age.
Oracles and divination tools, such as this, offer alternative perspectives in the symbolic language of our right brain. By lifting us out of our habitual patterns, we, hopefully achieve more satisfying and holistic perceptions. The Oracle of the Kabala emerges from the folklore and the mystical teachings of the Hebrew alphabet. According to the earliest known book on Jewish mysticism, the Sefer Yetzirah (The Book of Creation), written more than fifteen centuries ago, God formed the entire universe through speaking aloud the twenty-two letters. “Out of nothingness, with the vibration of God¹s cosmic utterances, all things spring to life.”
Each letter is understood as an archetype and has its own personality, its own magic and its own way of organizing the whole of existence around itself. It has ways of combining with other letters to form new meanings, and the words with which we in turn, create our reality. The mysticism and profundity of meaning within the system of letters and numbers of the Kabala is a lifetime study in itself, but this Oracle of the Kabala encapsulates it in simple language. Magically, it tends to meet one where one is, emotionally and intellectually, on any given day. As a divination system it sheds new light onto whatever question it is asked. However, Richard borrows from other traditions, especially Zen, to clarify and amplify his themes, which allowed me to feel included in the Universal family even though I am not Jewish and have little exposure to traditional Judaism.
While the Oracle of the Kabbalah is not intended to foretell future events, it can provide a perspective on a present situation and show considerations to keep in mind when weighing possible courses of action. It seems to me that the secret lies in one¹s ability to form an accurate and perceptive question before consulting the Oracle. Vague and general questions get vague and general answers! The answer can only be as helpful as the question is precise. With this admonition in mind, I fully recommend this little book, both as a tool for divination and simply as a source of comfort and spiritual inspiration.
A portion of the profits from the book sales will be donated to Friends of Trees in Oregon, a wonderful gesture by the author, and one absolutely in keeping with the whole spirit and tone of the book. Thank you Richard Seidman. Shalom.
—Reviewed by Jenny Swanpool.