<p><b>A comprehensive study of the history and evolution of the </b><b><i>dybbuk</i></b><b>, from kabbalistic tradition to popular folklore.</b></p><p><i>The Dybbuk</i> is the first comprehensive study of the historical and kabbalistic sources of the <i>dybbuk</i> phenomenon, from the first recorded case of dybbuk possession in Safed in 1571 onward. Dybbuk possession differs from possession by demons or Satan. Its origin is in the Kabbalistic concept of <i>gilgul</i> (transmigration) for sins that are so grievous that Gehenna is not sufficient punishment, and the soul must therefore wander until expiation is found. The dybbuk can temporarily find refuge in animals or people and can only be exorcised by a <i>Baal Shem</i>, a great kabbalist or expert in Jewish magic. In addition to describing the history and evolution of this concept, <i>The Dybbuk</i> includes English translations of all dybbuk stories discussed in the book, many translated for the first time.</p>