Every teacher has his or her star pupils, and I am proud to say that Mike Kellogg is just such an example. Mike Kellogg is a long-time student of the Ashlag Research Institute (ARI), and the Bnei Baruch - Kabbalah Research & Education Institute. His vast experience in teaching and his eloquence and writing skills are expressed throughout this exquisite composition. His proven success in leading study groups has justly earned him a name as a teacher in his own right, and I am delighted to know that such skillful persons are found in America, a land that has known trials and tribulations in the recent and remote past.

Because this book is written from a perspective of one who used to be a student, who feels the difficulties of a novice, and at the same time, knows first hand the intricacies of American subtleties, I am sure this book will serve its readers well in providing a preface to the wondrous wisdom of Kabbalah. It contains all the basics, and then some. I hope that you enjoy reading it as much as Mike claims to have enjoyed writing it. Rav Michael Laitman, Ph.D. Founder and President, Ashlag Research Institute (ARI) Bnei Baruch - Kabbalah Education & Research Institute.