The history of Jewish mysticism before Kabbalah has surprisingly not yet been written. Peter Schäfer fills this gap with this book, which, with its easily understandable language, is intended not only for specialists. Starting with the vision of the chariot of the prophet Ezekiel, the narrative spans the Enochian writings, Qumran, Philo of Alexandria, and rabbinic literature up to the so-called Merkavah mysticism. Through careful and empathetic reading of the relevant texts, the book explores what they convey about the ancient human longing to draw closer to God. This work represents the synthesis of an author who has engaged with this topic throughout his life.