Contemporary Alternative Spiritualities in Israel

This volume is the first English-language anthology to engage with the fascinating phenomena of recent surges in New Age and alternative spiritualties in Israel. Contributors investigate how these New Age religions and other spiritualties-produced in Western countries within predominantly Protestant or secular cultures-transform and adapt themselves in Israel. The volume focuses on a variety of groups and movements, such as Theosophy and Anthroposophy, Neopaganism, Channeling, Women's Yoga, the New Age festival scene, and even Pentecostal churches among African labor migrants living in Tel Aviv. Chapters also explore more Jewish-oriented practices such as Neo-Kabballah, Neo-Hassidism, and alternative marriage ceremonies, as well as the use of spiritual care providers in Israeli hospitals. In addition, contributors take a close look at the state's reaction to the recent activities and growth of new religious movements.   

Shai Feraro is a PhD student at Tel Aviv University's School of Historical Studies, Israel. He acts as Secretary of the Israeli Association for the Study of Religions. His scholarly interests lie in the connection between new religions and gender issues, and he specializes in the study of Neopaganism in North America, Britain, and Israel.

James R. Lewis is an extensively published scholar in the fields of new religious movements and religion and violence. He is currently Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Tromsø, Norway.