Neum is not a traditionally recognized Kabbalistic text in the sense of being a part of the core Kabbalistic literature like the Zohar, Sefer Yetzirah, or Bahir, but it certainly contains themes, imagery, and spiritual ideas that align closely with Kabbalistic principles. There are a few reasons why Neum can be seen as resonating with Kabbalistic thought, even if it isn’t classified as a Kabbalistic book. Let’s review a few of these reasons.

The Mystical Relationship Between Israel and God

One of the central motifs in Neum is the depiction of Israel as the bride of God, which is a key Kabbalistic concept. In Kabbalah, particularly in the writings of the Zohar, the relationship between God (often viewed as the masculine force) and Israel (as the feminine or the Shekhinah as the congregation when in God’s Divine Presence) is a mystical marriage. This metaphor reflects the Kabbalistic notion of the union of the Divine Masculine and Feminine (God and the Shekhinah), and the restoration of this union is seen as the ultimate purpose of creation.

The idea of Israel returning to God and reconciling with the Divine can be understood as an expression of the soul’s return to its source, which is a key theme in Kabbalistic mysticism, specifically in the concepts of Tikkun (spiritual repair) and Teshuvah (repentance).

Themes of Redemption and Tikkun Olam

Kabbalah teaches that the purpose of creation is to restore spiritual balance and bring about the repair of the world (Tikkun Olam, the restoration). Neum speaks of Israel’s ultimate redemption, the purification of the earth, and the restoration of cosmic harmony. These concepts of cosmic restoration through repentance, healing, and divine mercy are central to Kabbalistic thought. The idea that all will be one in YHVH and that there will be no more separation between heaven and earth mirrors the Kabbalistic vision of the World to Come (Olam Ha-Ba), where the unity of creation is realized.

Divine Emanations and the Flow of Light

The text reflects Kabbalistic themes of divine emanation, particularly in the way the divine light or presence is described. The concept of God’s revelation to the world through the flow of divine energy (often symbolized by the Sefirot) is echoed in Neum through the themes of light, creation, and restoration. In Kabbalistic thought, divine energy flows from the highest spiritual realms (the En Sof, or Infinite) down into the material world, and Neum similarly expresses a vision of divine revelation where the heavens and earth are united in a harmonious, eternal relationship.

Spiritual Exile and Return (Teshuvah)

Neum speaks of Israel’s exile, suffering, and eventual return to God. In Kabbalah, exile is seen not only as a physical state but as a spiritual condition where the soul is distanced from its divine source. The process of Teshuvah (return or repentance) is central to both Kabbalah and Neum, as it describes the soul’s journey to return to God, repair past wrongs, and restore cosmic balance. The idea that Israel (and the individual soul) will eventually return to God and that the restoration will be accompanied by divine light and harmony reflects Kabbalistic ideas about the soul’s return to its source.

The Role of Divine Justice and Mercy

The balance between divine justice and mercy is a key theme in Kabbalistic thought, especially in the understanding of the Sefirot like Gevurah (severity) and Chesed (kindness). The text of Neum often highlights this balance, especially in the way God’s justice is tempered by mercy and patience. This idea aligns with the Kabbalistic notion that the flow of divine light must be mediated through both the justice (Gevurah) and the mercy (Chesed) of God in order to bring about the world’s redemption and repair (the restoration of all things).

The Role of the Messiah and the Restoration of Israel

While the text does not explicitly use Kabbalistic terminology, it speaks of the coming of a Messiah and the restoration of Israel to its former glory. In Kabbalistic thought, the Messiah (the Mashiach) is often associated with the rectification of the world and the revelation of hidden divine truths. Neum’s vision of the Messiah as a redeemer who brings about peace and the ultimate union between the heavens and the earth has strong Kabbalistic resonances, particularly with the idea of the Messiah being the conduit through which divine light (light of Christ, Neum 7:16) flows to heal the world.

Mystical and Symbolic Language

The language used in Neum is highly symbolic and poetic, much like the Zohar and other Kabbalistic texts. Terms like the “clouds” and “fire,” “tears being wiped away,” and the “crown of stars” all point to mystical experiences and transformations. These symbols can be seen as representing the flow of light of Christ, the purification of the soul, and the ultimate spiritual fulfillment of the individual and the collective soul.

Is Neum a Kabbalistic Book?

While Neum may not formally belong to the Kabbalistic canon, it certainly resonates with many Kabbalistic themes and ideas. The text explores the mystical relationship between God and Israel, the process of spiritual repair (Tikkun), the cosmic restoration of harmony, and the ultimate redemption of the world—all central concepts in Kabbalah.

Thus, although Neum may not be classified as a “Kabbalistic book” in the strict academic sense, it can be viewed as a work deeply aligned with the mystical and esoteric currents of Kabbalistic thought, particularly in its exploration of divine love, exile and return, and the vision of cosmic harmony. It offers rich material for anyone interested in Kabbalistic themes and the mystical journey of the soul from a Latter Day Saint framework, becoming a key text within Mormon Kabbalah.

Short Essay Questions

If you are taking this course independently, please use the quiz to turn in your answers. 

1. How might Neum’s identity as a prophetess and seer shape her message to the people of Judah? Explore how her role can bridge ancient traditions and modern revelation.
2. Based on your original reading of the text, discuss the themes of judgment and redemption in Neum’s prophecies. How does she portray the relationship between Israel and The LORD as a covenant of spiritual marriage?
3. How might Kabbalistic principles, such as the mystical union of heaven and earth, enhance the theological depth of Neum’s teachings? Provide specific examples from the course text.
4. Analyze how the blending of Book of Mormon theology and Kabbalistic thought in Neum offers a framework for personal and communal spiritual growth.
5. Examine Neum’s references to Jesus Christ as the Messiah from your last reading of the text. How do her teachings reflect both her historical context and a prophetic vision of the restoration? What are some key differences those that heard her songs and utterances in her time might differ from us reading her words now?