This study guide will examine Ne’um, the Oracle or Declarations, through the lens of Kabbalah. By focusing on key Kabbalistic concepts, we can deepen our understanding of the text and explore its mystical and spiritual implications. The study guide includes general questions to provoke reflection, as well as more specific questions for deeper exploration, focused activities, and personal application.

Kabbalistic Concepts to Explore

Divine Unity and the Nature of YHVH (The One)

Kabbalah teaches that everything emanates from the En Sof (the infinite), and that the ultimate unity of the divine is reflected in all aspects of creation. The text repeatedly emphasizes the Oneness of YHVH, which aligns with the Kabbalistic understanding that all is unified in the Divine.

The Role of the Soul and the Heart (Lev)

Kabbalah places great importance on the heart (Lev) as the seat of the soul and the connection between the Divine and humanity. The heart is seen as the spiritual organ that can receive divine wisdom and knowledge. The Oracle frequently speaks of the heart, its value, and its connection to the soul.

Tikkun Olam (Repairing the World)

Neum speaks of healing, redemption, and the restoration of Israel. In Kabbalistic thought, Tikkun Olam is the idea of “repairing the world” by correcting spiritual imbalances, which may be connected to the redemption of Israel and the healing of the soul. As Latter Day Saints, we understand this idea as the restoration. As you read the text, look for key similarities between Judah and Israel in her time and our world today. 

The Divine Feminine and Prophecy

As the Oracle, Neum embodies the aspect of divine prophecy. In Kabbalistic teachings, there is a strong connection between the Shekinah (the divine feminine presence) and prophecy. Neum’s prophetic voice could be seen as channeling the Shekinah’s wisdom and guidance. 

The Sefirot (The Tree of Life)

The structure of the universe and the divine emanations are often explained through the Sefirot or Tree of Life in Kabbalah. The Oracle speaks of guiding light, shining stars, and pathways, which can be interpreted as referencing the pathways of the Sefirot, the divine emanations that structure the flow of divine energy.

Death and Resurrection

Neum speaks of life, death, and resurrection, which resonate deeply with Kabbalistic ideas of spiritual death and rebirth. The soul’s journey through various stages of existence, including the potential for resurrection, is a central theme in Kabbalistic teachings.

The Role of Mysticism and Secrets (Sod)

Mentioning mysteries and wonders in her utterances, Neum directly relate to the Sod level of the Torah, the deepest mystical interpretation. This section (Sod) speaks of wisdom and understanding that transcends ordinary knowledge, a key feature in Kabbalistic thought. 

Questions for Reflection

1. Oneness and Unity

• The Oracle consistently proclaims that YHVH is One. How does this understanding of divine unity relate to the Kabbalistic concept of En Sof, the Infinite Divine?
• How can recognizing divine unity in the world help us move beyond dualities in our own lives?

2. The Heart as a Spiritual Center

In Neum’s utterances, the heart plays a significant role. In Kabbalah, the heart is considered the seat of the soul. What do you think the heart symbolizes in this text?

How might we cultivate a “holy heart” or a heart that is aligned with divine wisdom, as described in Kabbalah?

3. Prophecy and Divine Inspiration

• The Oracle speaks as one who is inspired by YHVH’s presence. In Kabbalistic thought, prophecy is seen as a form of spiritual illumination. How does the Oracle’s prophetic voice align with the Kabbalistic concept of Ruach HaKodesh (the Holy Spirit)?
• What can we learn from Neum’s role in guiding others through prophecy?

4. Healing and Redemption

• The text speaks of healing, deliverance, and redemption through the power of YHVH. How do these themes connect to Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) in Kabbalah?
• What role does personal and collective redemption play in the Kabbalistic concept of spiritual evolution?

5. Death and Resurrection

• The Oracle declares that death will be conquered and that there will be no more mourning or crying. How does this resonate with the Kabbalistic belief in Gilgul (the transmigration of souls) and the eventual redemption of the soul?
• What does the concept of “death” mean in the Kabbalistic sense, and how does it differ from conventional understandings?

6. Mystical Knowledge and Understanding:

• The Oracle speaks of wisdom that can break the chains of death and see past deception. How is this related to the Mormon Kabbalistic pursuit of Chochmah (wisdom), Da’at (knowledge), and Binah (understanding)?
• What does it mean to “cut through” the mysteries and gain access to higher knowledge, according to Kabbalah?