maʿase Merkava

Jewish literature

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June 30, 2026

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Merkava, meaning "chariot," refers to the throne of God as described in the prophet Ezekiel's visions. This became a central focus for early Jewish mystics, particularly in Palestine and later Babylonia, from the 1st century AD onwards. Merkava mysticism involved visionary journeys through seven celestial realms, guarded by angels, with the ultimate goal of beholding the divine throne.1

This mystical tradition, influenced by Gnosticism, required initiates to undergo rigorous preparation, including fasting and the use of specific magical formulas to navigate the perilous ascent. The Talmud notes the dangers, with only Rabbi Akiba ben Joseph achieving a true visionary experience among four who attempted the journey. Texts like the Hekhalot literature, the Book of Enoch, and Shi'ur qoma are key sources for this tradition, which explored themes of intermediary beings, divine manifestations, and the organization of the universe.12

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Ishmael ben Elisha
…several in the genre of maʿase Merkava (“work of the chariot,” a reference to the divine chariot seen by the prophet in Ezekiel I). Maʿase bereshit dealt with mystical cosmology and cosmogony, while maʿase Merkava was the basic element of Jewish mysticism of the era. Ishmael is best remembered, however,…
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…several in the genre of maʿase Merkava (“work of the chariot,” a reference to the divine chariot seen by the prophet in Ezekiel I). Maʿase bereshit dealt with mystical cosmology and cosmogony, while maʿase Merkava was the basic element of Jewish mysticism of the era. Ishmael is best remembered, however,…
Read More