What it’s about
Rabbi Jill Hammer, an esteemed author of Jewish texts and spiritual practices, found herself turning to the art of fantasy writing during the pandemic. Her creative process uncovered deeper connections to Judaism’s sacred past, blending imaginative storytelling with spiritual heritage.
Why it matters
This endeavor shines a light on the profound impact of Jewish traditions and texts in contemporary works. Rabbi Hammer’s experience symbolizes the continuous dialogue between ancient wisdom and modern creativity, underscoring the cultural and spiritual richness of Judaism.
How it happened
During the pandemic, Rabbi Hammer stumbled upon an old story draft featuring four women living in a magically charged archipelago. This sparked a nightly writing routine, where her characters guided the plot’s evolution, merging unexpected elements while creating a riveting narrative.
Jewish mystical tradition at work
Rabbi Adina Allen, in her book “The Place Of All Possibility,” articulates this sensation as a divine partnership. The ancient mystical text,Sefer Yetzirah, suggests creation is powered by sacred forces flowing through individuals. Hammer’s writing echoed this, feeling like tapping into a larger collective spiritual journey.
Midrash: A precedent for spiritual storytelling
This creative process is reminiscent ofmidrash—a method of Jewish interpretation that combines investigation with spiritual invention. Midrash has long enriched the Jewish understanding of Torah, contributing innovative narratives that resonate with both historical and modern audiences.
A harmonious blend of past and present
Rabbi Hammer’s work, “The Moonstone Covenant,” to be released by Ayin Press, seamlessly intertwines literary inspiration with elements from sacred Jewish text. From nods to the Tree of Life in Proverbs to plot nuances reminiscent of the Book of Esther, her narrative merges art and spirituality.
The bigger picture
Rabbi Hammer’s story is a testament to the enduring influence of Jewish heritage in modern creative pursuits. By blending past and present, she illustrates the profound interconnectedness in the creative process, highlighting that our cultural and spiritual narratives remain ever-relevant and inspiring.
This story was first published on jpost.com.