Cosmology - The study of the universe as accomplished by scientific inquiry! The holistic study of all of it! Its current state, its origins, its contents...

Cosmogony - The study of the universe as accomplished by philosophy. The goal is the same as cosmology, however logic and reasoning are used to deduce the nature of the universe from a set of assumptions. (The first assumption is that the universe is understandable and logical!)

Midrash - A method or the act of interpreting Hebrew Scriptures (especially the Torah) employing multi-faceted argument, previous argument, and language consistencies. The Talmud is an immense compilation of Midrash. The Kabbalah is another such body of work.

Kabbalism - A branch of Jewish philosophy employing Midrash and mysticism. It was developed between 1000 to 700 years ago.