Source: Interview with Prof. Hyman M. Schipper, MD, PhD, FRCPC, Essentia Foundation
The enigma of consciousness in Jewish mystical thought.wav
This podcast presents an evaluation of ideas by Dr. Shimon Malinovich, a neurologist and neuroscientist, who explores the intersection of contemporary science and Jewish mystical tradition, specifically Kabbalah. The podcast begins by outlining different theological perspectives on God's relationship with the universe, establishing the Kabbalistic view as panentheistic, where God is both immanent within and transcendent of creation. We then delves into core Kabbalistic concepts such as the ten Sephirot (divine attributes) and their hierarchical structure, explaining their role in the emanation of reality from the infinite divine source. A key focus is the Kabbalistic understanding of consciousness as primordial and inherent in all of creation, contrasting with secular scientific views, and we explore concepts like the "Radla" (unknowable head) as a potential parallel to Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, suggesting a deeper, preordained reality beyond our perception. Ultimately, the talk aims to demonstrate the potential for Kabbalah to offer insights into fundamental questions about consciousness, reality, and the relationship between the spiritual and physical realms, drawing parallels with modern physics and philosophy.
One central theme is a particular perspective on the relationship between the divine and the universe. This view contrasts with the idea of a creator who sets the universe in motion and then remains largely separate, as well as the notion that the universe itself constitutes the divine. Instead, it posits that the divine both created and is immanent within the universe, while also transcending it.
Another fundamental concept discussed is a system of ten emanations or attributes of the divine. These are organized in a hierarchical structure, with the highest being closest to the infinite and the lowest acting as a conduit to manifest divine influence into reality. This system is presented as the basis of all creation, both objects and events.
The idea that consciousness is a fundamental aspect of reality, not solely a product of biological processes, is a key topic. This perspective suggests that consciousness is primordial, present throughout creation, and organized hierarchically and holographically. It is seen as influencing both the spiritual and physical realms.
Several interconnected principles are explored, including the idea that the whole is contained within each part, suggesting a fractal or holographic nature of reality. Another principle describes a cross-cutting interconnectedness where similar attributes are co-activated throughout the cosmos. Additionally, a concept referring to an unknowable interface is presented as a link between intrinsic consciousness and transpersonal consciousness, acting as a boundary that allows a microcosm to exist within a larger macrocosm without losing its identity.
The complex relationship between human choice and divine will is another significant area of discussion. While individuals experience what appears to be free will, it is suggested that from a higher perspective, everything is preordained. This paradox is compared to other accepted paradoxes in science, and the role of the aforementioned unknowable interface in mediating this experience of free will is highlighted.
The potential connections and convergences between this ancient wisdom and contemporary scientific understanding are examined. Parallels are drawn between certain concepts and ideas in quantum mechanics, such as holographic principles and the uncertainty principle. The possibility that future scientific advancements may further illuminate these connections and potentially validate aspects of this tradition is also considered.
1. What is Kabbalah and what is Dr. Shipper's interest in it?
Kabbalah is the Jewish mystical tradition that offers a way of understanding God and the universe through symbolic interpretation of sacred texts. Dr. Shipper, a professor of neurology and medicine with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, has a long-standing interest in the interface between contemporary science, particularly quantum mechanics and neuroscience, and Kabbalah. He sees potential parallels and insights in this ancient wisdom that resonate with modern scientific understanding of reality.