Aryeh Kaplan

Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan (1934–1983) was an American Orthodox rabbi, scholar, and prolific author who revolutionized how Jewish spirituality and philosophy are understood in the modern world. Born in New York, Kaplan received his rabbinical training and became known for his ability to bridge classical Jewish texts with contemporary scientific and philosophical thought. His most celebrated work, "Meditation and Kabbalah," introduced Jewish meditative practices to Western audiences and demonstrated the sophistication of Kabbalistic thought. Kaplan authored over 40 books and numerous articles on topics ranging from Jewish mysticism to science and religion, always emphasizing accessibility without sacrificing intellectual depth. His translation and commentary on the Sefer Yetzirah (Book of Formation) remains a standard reference. Despite his early death at 48, Kaplan's prolific output and innovative scholarship established him as one of the most influential Jewish teachers of the late 20th century, inspiring countless people to explore Jewish spirituality and mysticism.