Aryeh Kaplan
Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan was an American Orthodox rabbi, author, and scholar who was known for his extensive writings that span a broad range of Jewish topics. His works include Jewish philosophy, mysticism, and Jewish meditation. Kaplan was born in the Bronx, New York, in 1934 and passed away in 1983 at the young age of 48. Despite his early passing, Kaplan left a profound impact on Jewish thought and practice, particularly in the areas of meditation and Kabbalah.
Kaplan was ordained at the Mir Yeshiva in Jerusalem and later continued his studies at different yeshivot in the United States. He was known for his ability to translate complex religious texts into accessible English, making profound aspects of Jewish spirituality and religious practice more accessible to the public. His writings are characterized by clarity, depth, and a systematic approach, which has made them enduringly popular and influential.
Among his most famous works is 'Jewish Meditation: A Practical Guide', a book that explores the theory and practice of meditation in the context of Jewish tradition. Kaplan's work in this area has been particularly influential, introducing many to the concept of meditation as a form of spiritual practice within a distinctly Jewish context. His books continue to be widely read and respected in Jewish communities around the world, and his teachings on meditation have inspired many to explore spiritual dimensions of Judaism.