The Zohar: v. 1-23 (Zohar Set) Hardcover – 1 Jan. 2008

The Zohar set.v.1-23Its my second read though and and a dream come true to own my own set. Delivery was prompt and in good order.

Very nicely bound and high quality paper and printing, but the real gem is the content - full unabridged English translation with the original Hebrew texts. Introduction in Volume 1 is also very nice.

This is by far the most detailed, clear, and beautiful edition of Zohar in English. The great visionary and scholar Rabbi Dr Berg has given the world the most accessible, yet the most scholarly rendition of this important texts. The coverings, the type-set, and the explanations are all top-notch. Merely having this beautiful volume in your home library is not only a pleasure, but very positive as your intellect is refined as you consult this magnificent volumes daily.There is no other edition of Zohar needed once you read this. Especially the introduction by Rabbi Dr Berg must be read. He is the power behind of this historic project, and his passion for Zohar can be felt as you read his words.Highly recommend for Jewish and non-Jewish people to read and familiarise Zohar. It is simply great.

Simply a must have. Composed by kabbalist Rav Shimon bar Yochai, the Zohar defies definition. Its vast and comprehensive commentary on biblical matters has captivated spiritual and intellectual giants for over two millennia. But its codes, its metaphors, its cryptic language are not given to us purely for understanding. Like any holy book, they are designed as channels for energy. The Zohar is nothing less than a powerful spiritual tool imbued with the energy to bring peace, protection, healing and fulfillment to those who possess it

Like many others who have written reviews, I have also compared the translations with the Pritzker edition. I study under a traditional Kabbalist in the heart of the Chassidic community, and have found the berg translation to be fairly accurate, or accurate enough for one who studies in English and is learning Hebrew. I also agree that the new-age comments are irritating and unnecessary, but it is worth overlooking these if they give offence. Having said that, there are phrases and expressions that render the Hebrew beautifully, and more importantly reveal the 'light' which the Zohar represents. Having spent much time with academic material, I have come to realise that it has severe limitations when it comes to 'living' these words, through prayer and devkut. Whilst purists may appreciate the detailed notes and more academically accurate portrayal of the material, this is not sufficient for one who needs to practise Kabbalah. My teacher has usually, at least five or seven possible translations of a given work and it is only in this way one may come to a deeper appreciation, along with the required etymological analysis, gematria etc., of the deeper possible meanings to be found within. At the end of the day, one will use the material in a way best suited to your temperament, point in the path etc. They are worth purchasing, but would advise looking at other available sources in conjunction with them. I am not a follower of the Kabbalah Centre, nor would I wish to be, but I acknowledge that Rabbi Berg has provided a work that is both useful to a serious student and complete. There is no other available work such as this in English. The Pritzker edition contains errors as well, and also will be missing some very important parts of the work, which is a great shame.