Merkabah mysticism is often thought to have originated from the Hebrew word Merkavah, which translates to “chariot”. The word first appears in the Old Testament, and is used by the prophet Ezekiel to describe his vision.
Yet, its etymological origins can be traced even further back to Old Dynasty Egypt. For the ancients, Mer meant light, Ka spirit, and Ba meant body. Together, the holy trinity form an inter-dimensional vehicle which the pharaohs believed could be used to carry the soul across dimensions.
Biblical Origins
The Book of Ezekiel offers one of the first and most elaborate accounts of Merkabah mysticism. Written in the 6th century BCE, Ezekiel was among the Judean elite taken into exile in Babylon after the fall of Jerusalem.
It is in Babylon by the Chebar Canal that Ezekiel experiences his visions:
And I looked, and, behold, a whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding itself, and a brightness was about it, and out of the midst thereof as the colour of amber, out of the midst of the fire. (Ezekiel 1:4, KJV)
Ezekiel describes seeing four living creatures, each with four faces, four wings, with feet like that of a calf, gleaming like burnished bronze. Underneath these creatures are wheels that move along with them, appearing as though they are “wheels within wheels,” sparkling like topaz.
Ezekiel’s vision offered spiritual solace to the exiled Judeans. It was seen as a sign of God’s presence and continued guidance, even in foreign lands. This transcendental vision became an impetus for other Judean mystics to seek similar divine encounters, thus becoming the first Merkaba initiates.
Hekhalot Literature
The term “Hekhalot” is derived from the Hebrew word heckal, which translates to “temples”. Emerging between the 1st and 6th centuries CE, the texts mark a significant transition in Jewish mysticism, bridging ancient Merkabah traditions with later esoteric teachings. A central theme is the depiction of seven heavens, each termed Heckal, or temple.
Each heaven is uniquely distinct, and protected by a guardian deity:
- First Heaven: Overseen by the angel Gabriel, this is the closest heaven to Earth. It serves as a curtain that separates the earthly realm from the heavenly realms, so is called the veil. The inhabitants of this plane are said to be angels that are involved with the governance of the natural world.
- Second Heaven: Ruled by Raphael, this heaven is often referred to as the firmament. It is the heaven which houses the sun, stars and moon. It’s also noteworthy for being the prison for fallen angels like Azael.
- Third Heaven: Guarded by Anahel, this realm is a sanctuary of peace often called Shehaqim(meaning ‘clouds’) said to be composed of water. It’s believed to be the location for the Garden of Eden and Tree of Life.
- Fourth Heaven: This layer is home to the celestial Jerusalem and the Temple, a place of immense holiness. It’s believed that Michael fights against the forces of evil in this plane. The sun and moon orbital pathways are also said to be charted out in this heaven.
- Fifth Heaven: The fifth heaven is said to be the home for a host of avenging angels, overseen by Samael. It’s purpose is believed to keep a record of all human deeds, and deliver God’s justice when appropriate.
- Sixth Heaven: The sixth heaven is closest of them all to the seat of consciousness and is presided over by Zadkiel. The beings of this realm are in a constant state of choir and bliss, if they stop singing for even a moment the atoms that bind the universe together will unravel.
- Seventh Heaven: The most sacred of all, the seat of consciousness itself. Cassiel is often associated with this realm, and ensures that only the worthy are granted entry.
The texts serve as a guide for those aspiring to ascend the seven heavens. This journey is not risk free however. Without preparation, it’s possible to get stuck in a heaven, forever severing the mind-body-soul connection.
Conclusion
Merkabah mysticism offers a fascinating glimpse into the early Jewish spiritual landscape. By studying Merkabah traditions, one begins to wonder just how applicable is ancient wisdom to the modern world.
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