Domesticated Lilith: The Integral Role of the Demonic Feminine in the Esoteric Writings of the German Pietists

This study argues for the cross-boundary role of the demoness Lilith in the writings of the medieval Jewish esotericists, known as the German Pietists. Lilith is one of many demonic forces who took on roles in both the celestial and terrestrial spheres. As demonstrated in central works such as The B...

Full description

Saved in:  
Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Sierka, Anna (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
Check availability: HBZ Gateway
Journals Online & Print:
Drawer...
Fernleihe:Fernleihe für die Fachinformationsdienste
Published: University of Chicago Press 2023
In: The journal of religion
Year: 2023, Volume: 103, Issue: 2, Pages: 209-227
Online Access: Volltext (lizenzpflichtig)
Description
Summary:This study argues for the cross-boundary role of the demoness Lilith in the writings of the medieval Jewish esotericists, known as the German Pietists. Lilith is one of many demonic forces who took on roles in both the celestial and terrestrial spheres. As demonstrated in central works such as The Book of the Divine Glory, mystical and magical speculations placed her in discussions on divine punishment, demonology, and complex questions regarding legal prescriptions. Her integration into the theosophical doctrine of the pietists is evidenced by the thorough amalgamation of various genres and topics where she is discussed. The hierarchic subservience of demons toward the angels and the Holy One is thus an important aspect of how such evil forces found their place within a cohesive system.
ISSN:1549-6538
Contains:Enthalten in: The journal of religion
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1086/723605