The Ramchal Letters - Selected Revelations and Teachings

he Ramchal Letters: Selected Revelations and Teachings of Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto

Translated and Edited by Simcha Shabtai | Published by Machon Ramchal

For the first time in English, The Ramchal Letters offers an unprecedented, firsthand look into the life, mind, and esoteric world of one of Judaism's greatest Torah giants and mekubalim. Through a carefully curated selection of his personal correspondence, this groundbreaking volume constructs a compelling narrative around the Ramchal’s life, his profound spiritual attainments, and the intense controversies they ignited.

Elegantly translated and carefully annotated, this work is structured to guide the reader through the Ramchal's extraordinary journey and profound legacy:

• The Historical Context: A comprehensive introduction sets the stage, exploring the Italian Kabbalistic tradition, the legacy of the Arizal, and the complex historical background that fueled the famed Ramchal controversy.

• Spiritual Revelations: Section I delves into the Maggid tradition, providing gripping, intimate accounts of the Ramchal’s first heavenly revelations. Through Letters 1–8, readers witness the Ramchal and his closest talmidim detailing these experiences, defending their holy origins against accusations that they stem from the Sitra Achra, and carefully distinguishing his revelations from the transmissions of the Arizal.

• The Holy Fellowship: Section II transitions from personal revelation to collective spiritual mission. Letters 9–14 reveal the inner workings of his Kabbalistic study circle. It outlines their charter, the protective power of continuous Zohar study, and the Ramchal's distinct approach to rectifying the Shechinah through Divine Service.

• The Primacy of Kabbalistic Study: Section III explores the Ramchal's learning hierarchy through foundational essays—Vikuach Mar Tamka u-Mar Kashisha and Derech Chochmah—which passionately argue for the necessity and correct prioritization of the study of pnimiyus haTorah alongside nigleh.

The Ramchal Letters is an essential addition to any Torah library, offering readers a rare opportunity to hear the voice of the Ramchal as he defends his holy path and imparts his deepest teachings on avodas Hashem.