Gershon Winkler

Gershon Winkler is a Danish rabbi, scholar, and author known for his work on indigenous and shamanic aspects of Judaism. Born in Denmark in 1949, he was ordained in 1978 and has dedicated his career to exploring and teaching ancient Hebraic mystery wisdom. Winkler is recognized as a pioneer in the restoration of Israel's shamanic traditions, a concept he terms "Aboriginal Judaism." He founded the Walking Stick Foundation in 1997 to further this mission, organizing retreats, seminars, and tours. Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Winkler has served as a Jewish chaplain in correctional facilities and forensic hospitals. He is also a Vietnam War veteran. His extensive writings cover Jewish law, lore, history, and mysticism, and he holds a doctorate in Jewish Theology. Winkler is noted for both his academic rigor and his approachable demeanor.

Rabbi Gershon Winkler's scholarly focus lies in the restoration and promulgation of what he refers to as "Aboriginal Judaism." This involves delving into the lesser-known ancient Hebraic and Aramaic mystery traditions. He is considered a significant figure in reviving the shamanic practices of ancient Israel, aiming to reconnect contemporary Judaism with these ancestral spiritual roots. Through his organization, the Walking Stick Foundation, he facilitates educational initiatives such as retreats, seminars, and specialized tours of Israel designed to explore these indigenous spiritual dimensions. His work seeks to uncover and preserve a deeper, more esoteric layer of Jewish tradition often overlooked in mainstream discourse.

Ordained in 1978, Gershon Winkler possesses a broad range of expertise encompassing Jewish law, lore, history, theology, and mysticism. He holds a doctorate in Jewish Theology, underscoring his academic credentials. His rabbinic career has included serving as a spiritual teacher and facilitator for various Jewish communities across the United States. Notably, he served as the rabbi for Congregation Har Shalom in Missoula, Montana, before its affiliation with the Reform Movement. In addition to his community work, Winkler has dedicated considerable time to ministry within correctional facilities and forensic mental health settings, serving as a Jewish chaplain. This dual focus highlights his commitment to both academic exploration and practical spiritual guidance across diverse populations.

Rabbi Winkler is the author of over fourteen books that explore a wide spectrum of Jewish thought, including law, history, and esoteric wisdom. His literary works have garnered attention from various media outlets, including features in The Wall Street Journal, PBS's Religion and Ethics Newsweekly, and prominent Israeli newspapers like Ha’aretz. He is recognized not only for his scholarly depth but also for his engaging and often humorous presentation of complex subjects. His writings often bridge traditional Jewish teachings with mystical and shamanic concepts, making them accessible to a broad audience interested in the deeper currents of Jewish spirituality and practice.