Sefer Yetzirah is the most ancient Jewish mystic text, written between III-VI centuries. Text contains less than 2000 words in its longest version. Divided into six chapters of mishnayot, containing dogmatic statements
Born in Vienna in 1929, eleven years after Austro-Hungarian Empire's fall. Vienna was a vibrant cultural center with prominent intellectuals like Freud. City faced anti-Semitism despite Jewish population making up 20%. Parents emigrated to US in 1939, settling in Brooklyn
The Seal of Solomon is believed to have belonged to King Solomon. It consists of a six-pointed star surrounded by a circle. The symbol was used by Solomon to command spirits and demons
Ashkenazi Jews originate from Central and Eastern Europe. Sephardic Jews originate from Spain, Portugal, and Middle East. Ashkenazi comes from Hebrew word for Germany. Sephardic comes from Hebrew word for Spain
Sardis became Roman province of Lydia in 133 BCE. Jewish community established in 3rd century BCE under Antiochus III. Roman proquaestor Lucius Antonius granted Jewish rights in 50-49 BCE
Located in southwestern Netherlands, bordering Zeeland. Built on site where sandy soil meets marine clay. Name means "border of ramparts" in Dutch