Metatron

​​​Metatron is a figure that occupies a central place in various traditions of mystical thought, especially within Kabbalistic and other esoteric schools of Jewish mysticism. Although not a biblical figure, Metatron appears in post-biblical texts, especially within the Talmud, and later becomes a prominent symbol in medieval Kabbalah. The origin of the concept is shrouded in layers of mystery, blending the line between angelic figure, divine mediator, and mystical symbol.

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Metatron in Jewish Mysticism and Apocryphal Literature

Metatron's Origins: Biblical and Apocryphal Texts

Metatron’s name does not appear in the Hebrew Bible, which raises questions about his origins. Scholars generally trace the figure of Metatron to early Jewish mystical and apocalyptic literature, especially the Merkavah (chariot) mysticism of the first few centuries CE. This mystical school was concerned with visions of God's divine chariot (the Merkavah), as seen in Ezekiel's vision, and the ascent of the soul to the heavenly realms.

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In this literature, Metatron is often described as the chief of the archangels and the scribe of God. Some scholars suggest that Metatron may have originated as a human figure, possibly the prophet Enoch, who was transformed into an angelic being. This is supported by the tradition found in 3 Enoch, a mystical text written in the 5th or 6th century CE, where Enoch is said to have ascended to heaven and been transformed into Metatron, “the lesser YHWH.”

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The transformation of Enoch into Metatron is significant because it represents a bridge between the human and divine. Unlike other angelic beings, Metatron has a human origin, suggesting that the divine realm is not entirely inaccessible to human beings. Through mystical practices, humans can ascend to a higher level of spiritual existence, just as Enoch did.

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Metatron as the "Lesser YHWH" (Tetragrammaton)

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In 3 Enoch, Metatron is also called the “Lesser YHWH” (YHWH HaKatan), a highly controversial title. YHWH is the sacred, ineffable name of God in Judaism, and calling anyone or anything the "Lesser YHWH" seems almost blasphemous. Yet, this title does not imply equality with God but rather indicates Metatron's role as God’s representative or mediator.

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As the Lesser YHWH, Metatron is depicted as sitting on a heavenly throne, a privilege that no other angel possesses. This throne imagery is central to Jewish mystical thought, where the Throne of Glory represents the seat of divine authority. Metatron’s proximity to the divine throne emphasizes his role as a mediator between God and humanity, acting as a conduit for divine messages.

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Metatron’s connection to the divine name, YHWH, also ties him to the concept of the Shekhinah, the divine presence in the world. In Kabbalistic thought, the Shekhinah represents the feminine aspect of God that dwells among the people of Israel. Metatron’s role as the Lesser YHWH suggests that he may be a manifestation of the Shekhinah, embodying the divine presence in a form that is accessible to human beings.

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Metatron in the Talmud

The Talmud, a central text of Rabbinic Judaism, contains several references to Metatron, though these passages are often cryptic and open to interpretation. In one famous passage, Rabbi Elisha ben Abuyah, a heretic figure also known as Aher, enters heaven and sees Metatron sitting down. This shocks Aher because sitting is a sign of authority, and no angel is supposed to sit in God’s presence. Aher mistakenly concludes that Metatron must be a second divine power, leading him to apostasy.

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In response, the heavenly court punishes Metatron by giving him "sixty lashes with a fiery rod" to demonstrate that he is not a divine being. This story illustrates the dangers of misinterpreting Metatron’s role. Although he is highly exalted, Metatron is still a created being and must not be confused with God.

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Symbolic and Esoteric Significance

Metatron in Kabbalah: The Tree of Life

In Kabbalistic thought, Metatron occupies a central place as a symbol of divine mediation. One of the primary symbols in Kabbalah is the Tree of Life, which represents the ten sephirot, or emanations, through which God interacts with the world. Each sefirah corresponds to a different aspect of the divine, ranging from Keter (Crown) at the highest level to Malkhut (Kingdom) at the lowest. Metatron is often associated with the sefirah of Keter or with Tiferet (Beauty), depending on the interpretation.

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As the figure who mediates between the infinite and the finite, Metatron is seen as a bridge between the divine and human worlds. He stands at the gateway between the sephirot and the material world, guiding souls in their ascent toward the divine. In this role, Metatron is often compared to the Greek god Hermes, who also serves as a mediator between gods and humans.

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The Metatron's Cube

One of the most popular esoteric symbols associated with Metatron is the Metatron’s Cube, a geometric figure composed of thirteen interlocking circles that form a three-dimensional cube. This figure is said to represent the fundamental patterns of creation, containing within it all the Platonic solids, which are the building blocks of the material world.

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The Metatron’s Cube is often used in sacred geometry, a mystical tradition that believes the universe is structured according to mathematical principles. In this context, Metatron is seen as the architect of the cosmos, the one who translates divine energy into the patterns that shape the material world.

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The symbolism of the cube is also significant in Kabbalistic thought. In the Zohar, one of the foundational texts of Kabbalah, the cube represents the six directions of space (north, south, east, west, up, and down), with the seventh point being the divine center. This sevenfold structure mirrors the seven lower sephirot on the Tree of Life, which represent the qualities through which God interacts with the world.

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Metatron and the Name of God

In Kabbalah, the name of God is a central focus of meditation and mystical practice. The Tetragrammaton, the four-letter name of God (YHWH), is considered the most sacred name, and meditating on this name is believed to bring the mystic closer to the divine. Metatron, as the scribe of God, is often associated with the divine name and is said to guard the secrets of God’s names.

One of Metatron’s titles is "Sar HaPanim," or "Prince of the Divine Presence." In this role, Metatron is said to have knowledge of the seventy-two names of God, which are used in various mystical practices. By invoking these names, the mystic can access divine power and bring about spiritual transformation.

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Metatron in Popular Culture and Modern Interpretations

Metatron in Literature and Media

Metatron has also made appearances in popular culture, often as a symbol of divine authority or cosmic order. In modern literature, Metatron appears in Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series, where he is portrayed as a tyrannical figure who seeks to dominate the universe. Pullman’s Metatron is a far cry from the benevolent mediator of Jewish mysticism, but this portrayal reflects the ambivalence that often surrounds figures of divine authority in modern thought.

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In film and television, Metatron has been depicted as both an angelic figure and a bureaucratic enforcer of divine law. For example, in the television series Supernatural, Metatron is portrayed as a fallen angel who seeks to rewrite the rules of heaven and earth. This portrayal emphasizes Metatron’s role as a scribe and mediator, but also highlights the potential for corruption in figures of authority.

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Metatron in New Age and Esoteric Thought

In New Age and esoteric thought, Metatron is often seen as a guide or teacher for those on a spiritual path. He is believed to assist in the process of ascension, helping individuals raise their vibrational frequency and connect with higher levels of consciousness. In this context, Metatron is often invoked in meditation and healing practices, where he is seen as a source of divine wisdom and protection.

One of the most common ways that Metatron is invoked in New Age thought is through the use of Metatron’s Cube, which is seen as a tool for clearing negative energy and activating the flow of divine light. By meditating on this symbol, practitioners believe they can align themselves with the divine patterns of creation and access higher levels of spiritual awareness.

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Metatron’s role as a guide in the process of ascension is also linked to the concept of the Merkavah, or chariot, which represents the soul’s journey through the heavenly realms. In this context, Metatron is seen as a guide who helps the soul navigate the challenges of the spiritual path and reach higher levels of consciousness.

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Metatron and the Chakras

In some New Age traditions, Metatron is associated with the chakras, the energy centers of the body in Hindu and Buddhist thought. Specifically, Metatron is often linked to the crown chakra, which represents the connection to the divine. By meditating on Metatron, practitioners believe they can open the crown chakra and access higher levels of spiritual insight.

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In this context, Metatron is seen as a guide who helps individuals connect with their higher selves and align their energy with the divine. This role is consistent with Metatron’s traditional role as a mediator between the divine and human worlds, but it also reflects the syncretism of New Age thought, which often blends elements from different religious and mystical traditions.

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Metatron occupies a unique place in Jewish mysticism and esoteric thought, standing at the crossroads between the divine and human worlds. As a symbol of mediation, Metatron represents the possibility of ascent from the material world to the divine, a theme that has resonated with mystics and seekers throughout the centuries.

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Whether as the Lesser YHWH, the divine scribe, or the guide of souls, Metatron’s many roles reflect the complexity and richness of his symbolism. His influence extends beyond the boundaries of Jewish thought, finding a place in New Age spirituality and popular culture, where he continues to inspire and provoke questions about the nature of divine authority and the possibility of human transformation.