Sefer ha-Razim I und II - Das Buch der Geheimnisse I und II

Two macroforms dating back to late antiquity are known under the Hebrew title Sefer ha-Razim (The Book of Secrets). Both are closely related in their history of tradition and redaction. Sefer ha-Razim I is a magical manual consisting of an introduction and seven chapters composed according to the cosmological scheme of seven heavens. Sefer ha-Razim II consists mainly of angelogical lists of names corresponding to the twelve months that are used for magical purposes. Both texts were repeatedly redacted and translated and widely received in Judaism as well as in Christianity. The present edition considers this rather complex history of redaction and reception by presenting the different versions synoptically. This is the first publication of Sefer ha-Razim II. A translation of the standard version of both macroforms into German as well as a detailed commentary are included.