Our Mission
Contemporary Applications of Ancient Wisdom
The Contemporary Kabbalah Institute introduces and develops contemporary kabbalistic theology to enhance personal spiritual experience for individuals from any religious background. We bridge ancient wisdom with modern spiritual needs.
What is Kabbalah?
Kabbalah, meaning "receiving," is a philosophy that experiences divinely emanating energies flowing into us. Kabbalists strive to connect to these flows of:
What We Offer
- Beginning and advanced online classes
- Academic conferences and scholarly research
- Spiritual retreats for religious organizations
- Speakers for schools, universities, and congregations
- Weekly study groups in the Washington area
- Interfaith programs exploring Christian Kabbalah
Programs & Learning
Educational Opportunities for All Levels
Weekly Kabbalah Study Group
Join Dr. McCrensky's ongoing study group for deep exploration of Kabbalistic texts and wisdom. Open to all levels of experience.
Contact: info@contemporarykabbalah.org for information and the Zoom link to the class.
Online Classes
Beginning and advanced courses in Kabbalistic studies, designed for students, institutions, congregations, seekers, academics, and clergy.
Academic Conferences
Scholarly gatherings to present papers, foster research, and share ideas related to contemporary Kabbalah among leading voices in the field.
Spiritual Retreats
Immersive experiences for religious organizations, congregations, and schools seeking deeper connection to Kabbalistic wisdom and practice.
Speaking Engagements
Presentations on contemporary Kabbalah and its applications to modern spiritual life for schools, universities, and congregations.
Interfaith Programs
Exploring historical Christian Kabbalah and applications of contemporary kabbalistic interpretation to Christianity and other traditions.
Essential Reading
Dr. McCrensky's Books on Kabbalistic Wisdom
The Surreptitiously Subversive Zohar: The Case of Moses
A groundbreaking exploration of the Zohar as a cryptic, subversive biblical commentary that challenges traditional rabbinic interpretation. Through the figure of Moses and the Sefira of Netsach, this work reveals how Zohar conceals radical theology within symbolic language.
Coming Soon!
Connecting to Judaism: Spirituality through Kabbalah
An accessible introduction to Judaism through the spiritual lens of Kabbalah, revealing the deeper meaning of Jewish rituals, holidays, prayer, and sacred practice. This work bridges tradition and mysticism, offering readers a framework for experiencing Judaism as a living, spiritual path.
View on Amazon
Understanding Evil and Ethics through Kabbalah
A profound examination of evil, ethics, and repentance through Kabbalistic theology, addressing humanity’s most difficult moral questions in the shadow of historical tragedy. Drawing on Zoharic insight and biblical foundations, this book offers a spiritual framework for ethical responsibility and contemporary life.
View on AmazonDr. Jay McCrensky
Founder & President, Contemporary Kabbalah Institute
Dr. Jay Frederick McCrensky brings over 30 years of study and teaching in Kabbalistic wisdom to his role as founder and president of the Contemporary Kabbalah Institute. His approach bridges ancient mystical traditions with contemporary spiritual needs, making Kabbalah accessible to modern seekers.
Background
- PhD in Jewish Studies (Kabbalah & Jewish Thought) - Baltimore Hebrew University & Towson University
- MBA - Stanford University
- BA - University of Rochester
- Former Professor - St. Mary's College of Maryland
- President - Marketshare Management, Inc.
- Co-founder - Machaya Klezmer Band (with wife Barbara Hess)
- Professional Ski Instructor
Dr. McCrensky teaches at universities, community centers, and synagogues throughout the Washington area, and leads weekly Kabbalah study groups providing ongoing spiritual guidance to students from all backgrounds.
Contact Us
Begin Your Journey into Kabbalistic Wisdom
General Information & Membership
Dr. Jay McCrensky, President
Support & Donations
The Contemporary Kabbalah Institute is a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible non-profit organization. Support enables our teaching, scholarship, and public programs, and helps make authentic Kabbalistic wisdom accessible to a wider audience.
Support Our Work