... explanation as to why it appeared in this particular stage in history. It is argued that this was due to a close relationship between the Qabbalah and the Gnostic doctrines; however there is no actual evidence to support this. The development of the Qabbalah is said to occur in eight stages. 'Sefer ha-bahir'3 is thought to be the first of these stages. This refers to the first form of 'the early qabbalistic tradition.'4 This was thought to be the foundation of the ten emanations (Sefirot) of God. The meaning and description of the Sefirot is best illustrated by Neusner as being a 'paradigmatic plan of all that unfolds from the supreme deity, (Ein Sof) or infinity.'5 At the end of the 12th century a collection of qabbalist schools were developed in Provence. At their hub was Isaac 'the blind' or Yitshaq Saggi Nahor, this is considered as being the second ...

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