Hasidic philosophy

This article is about Hasidic philosophy. For an overview of the Hasidic movement, see Hasidic Judaism.
Hasidus called the "Torah of the Baal Shem Tov" and his "Wellsprings", after his account in a letter to Gershon of Kitov about the elevation of his soul to the Heavenly Realms on Rosh Hashanah 1746. Repeating the Talmudic question, he asked the Messiah, "When is the Master coming?" The reply was, "When your Wellsprings spread forth to the furthest extremes"[1]

Hasidic philosophy or Hasidus (Hebrew: חסידות), alternatively transliterated as Hassidism, Chassidism, Chassidut etc. is the teachings, interpretations, and practice of Judaism as articulated by the Hasidic movement. Thus, Hasidus is a framing term for the teachings of the Hasidic masters, expressed in its range from Torah (the Five books of Moses) to Kabbalah (Jewish mysticisim). Hasidus deals with a range of spiritual concepts such as God, the soul, and the Torah, and gives them understandable, applicable and practical expressions.[2][3] It also discusses the charismatic religious elements of the movement, but mainly Hasidus describes the structured thought and philosophy of Hasidim. In other words, it speaks of the "soul of Torah", as Hasidus is often referred to by that very name.[4]

"Hasidus" (piousness) and "Hasid" (a pious person) are terms used in Jewish literature of all ages, and are not limited to adherents of the Hasidic movement, whose philosophy is discussed in this article.

The term "Hasidus"

The word derives from the Jewish spiritual term Hessed (or "Chessed"), commonly translated as "loving-kindness," and which also means kindness, love and merciful behavior. It is also one of the 10 Sephirot of Kabbalah, which represents God's provision of good and sustenance to the world, and the power underlying similar actions performed by human beings. The word "Hasidus," sometimes pronounced "Hasidut", as well as its appellation "hasid",[5] has been used in Jewish tradition for pious persons who have sincere motives in serving God and helping others, especially when not obligated to do so ("lifenim mi-shurat ha-din"). The "Hasid" goes above and beyond what is demanded of him by ordinary morality and the boundaries of Halakha, the collective body of religious laws for Jews which derive from the Torah.

In Jewish religious practice, "Middat hasidut" is a religious observance or moral practice which goes beyond mere obedience to Halakha, it is an extraordinary act of good performed by an individual because of their love for a fellow person or for God. An early mention of the term "middat hasidut" appears in the Talmud (Baba Metzia 52:2), and thereafter it was used widely in Jewish Halakhic literature. Thus the term "hasid" should not be mistaken to refer solely to a follower of the Eastern European movement started by the Baal Shem Tov in the 18th century and its philosophy known as hasidus. Rather, "hasid" is a title used for many pious individuals and by many Jewish groups since Biblical times.[6] Some earlier European Jewish movements were also called by this name, such as the Hasidei Ashkenaz of medieval Germany.[6]

Today, however, the terms hasidus and hasid generally connote Hasidic philosophy and the followers of the Hasidic movement.[2][4] They refer to the mystical, populist revival of Judaism, initiated by Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer (the Baal Shem Tov) in 18th century Podolia and Volhynia (now Ukraine). His close disciples developed the philosophy in the early years of the movement. From the third generation, the select leadership mutually decided to split the Hasidic movement into smaller groups with the hope of more easily spreading hasidus across Eastern Europe. These new leaders, who until now were all adherents of the second generation leader, settled in cities from Poland, Hungary and Romania, to Lithuania and Russia.[5]

In general

Hasidic tradition and thought has gained admirers[2][5] from outside its immediate following, and outside Orthodox Jewish belief, for its charismatic inspiration and kabbalistic insights. "Ḥasidism should in Jewish history be classed among the most momentous spiritual revolutions that have influenced the social life of the Jews, particularly those of eastern Europe."[5]

Distilling a culture of Jewish religious life that began before the arrival of modernity, its stories, anecdotes, and creative teachings have offered spiritual dimensions for people today. In its more systematic and intellectual articulations, however, it is also a form of traditional Jewish interpretation (exegesis) of Scriptural and Rabbinic texts, a new stage in the development of Jewish mysticism, and a philosophically illuminated system of theology that can be contrasted with earlier, mainstream Jewish Philosophy. This quality can bridge and unite the different disciplines of philosophy and mysticism[5] (in the older Jewish tradition of Kabbalah, experiential connection with spirituality takes place through a highly elaborate conceptual theology and textual interpretation, in contrast with some common, more intuitive definitions of mysticism; new ideas derive authority from Scriptural interpretation, and therefore gain an intellectual organisation). Hasidic thought builds upon Kabbalah,[5] and is sometimes called a new stage in its development. However, this generalisation is misleading (although implicit in Hasidus are new interpretations of Kabbalah, that can be drawn out and related to its new philosophical positions). Kabbalah gives the complete structure of traditional Jewish metaphysics, using subtle categorisations and metaphors. This studies the Divine interaction with Creation, through describing the emanations that reveal, and mediate Godliness. Because of the concern to divest these ideas from any physical connotations, Kabbalists traditionally restricted their transmission to closed circles of advanced scholars, for fear of misinterpreting sensitive concepts. Hasidus leaves aside the Kabbalistic focus on complicated metaphysical emanations, to look at the simple essence of Divinity that it sees permeating within each level, and transcending all. Hasidus looks to the inner spiritual meaning within Kabbalah by relating its ideas to man's inner psychological awareness, and conceptual analogies from man's observation. This independence from the esoteric nature of Kabbalah, gives Hasidic thought its ability to be expressed in its spiritual stories, tangible teachings, and emotional practices, as well as the ability to pervade and illuminate other levels of Torah interpretation, not only the hidden ideas of Kabbalah. Hasidus only utilises Kabbalistic terminology when it explains and enlivens the Kabbalistic level of Torah interpretation. This distinctive ability to bring Kabbalah into intellectual and emotional grasp, is only one of the characteristics and forms of Hasidic thought. The more involved Hasidic writings use Kabbalah extensively, according to their alternative paths within Hasidism, but only as a means to describe the inner processes of spirituality, as they relate to man's devotional life. The spiritual contribution of the range of Hasidus avoids the concerns that traditionally restricted Kabbalah, and for the first time,[5] offered the whole population access to the inner dimensions of Judaism.

Overview in historical context

Main article: Hasidic Judaism
Tradition records the Baal Shem Tov as a Hidden Tzadik, living in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine before his public teaching[7]

The new interpretations of Judaism initiated by the Baal Shem Tov, and developed by his successors, took ideas from across Jewish tradition, and gave them new life and meaning. It especially built upon the mystical tradition of Kabbalah, and presented it in a way that was accessible for the first time by all Jews. Until then the Jewish mystical tradition had only been understandable and reserved for a scholarly elite. The innovative spirituality of Hasidism, sought to leave aside the advanced and subtle metaphysical focus of Kabbalah on the Heavenly Spiritual Worlds, to apply the Kabbalistic theology to the everyday life and Jewish observance of man. The common folk could feel the spiritual warmth within these new teachings, as they were now related to inner human psychological experience. The creative and insightful new teachings, offered the whole community a description of Divine immanence present in all of Creation, and an experience of Divine love and meaningful purpose behind every occurrence of daily life. With this mystical revival, every person could feel valuable, and Jewish spirituality accessible. This was especially important to the Jewish societies of 18th Century Eastern Europe, who had been crushed by persecutions and disillusionment. Outside of the flourishing centre of Talmudic Rabbinic Judaism in Lithuania, in the regions of the Ukraine, Poland, Hungary and Russia, the ability to access Talmudic learning had declined. Rabbinic Judaism valued such learning as the main path to spirituality, so the outlying communities were disenfranchised from the consolations of Jewish life.

Rebuilt synagogue of the Baal Shem Tov in Medzhybizh, Ukraine

The Baal Shem Tov, and his successors, offered the masses a new approach to Judaism, that valued sincerity and emotional fervour, in addition to advanced learning. This was conveyed through inner mystical interpretations of Scripture and Rabbinic texts, sometimes conveyed by imaginative parables, as well as hagiographic tales about the Hasidic Masters, and new dimensions to melody (Nigun) and customs (Minhag). The soulful warmth of this new level of Torah captured the hearts of the masses, while the deep ideas underlying it also attracted great scholars. The Hasidic movement became one of the most successful revival movement in Jewish history. Its spirituality ensured the allegiance of many followers to Jewish life, through the social, political, and intellectual upheavals of early modern history, and has also had an appeal to non-Orthodox Jewish movements until today (especially through the influence of late 19th Century and 20th Century Neo-Hasidism). The charismatic stories told about the Hasidic Masters, the emotional contributions it brought to Judaism, and the creative originality of some of its teachings, have become well known in the wider Jewish world. Theologians such as Martin Buber and writers such as Elie Wiesel have publicised the charismatic and lyrical dimensions of Hasidism, while Jewish historians influenced by the early Haskalah (Enlightenment movement) helped mould the common depiction of Hasidism as a movement that mainly encouraged emotional exuberance and joy, within the framework of traditional Rabbinic Jewish study and observance. However, its outside admirers, as well as its detractors, have often not been as familiar with the philosophical depth and significance of its ideas, in the history of Jewish thought. In the academic world this trend has been changed, beginning with the scholarly work of Gershom Scholem, though some of the figures in this field give secular interpretations of Jewish mysticism and Hasidism, that can differ with philosophical views from inside the movement. The two dimensions to Hasidism of emotional warmth and intellectual depth, are united in their origins, as the movement began on both levels. The Baal Shem Tov taught by means of parables and short, heartwarming Torah explanations that encapsulated profound interpretations of Jewish mysticism. The unlearned, downtrodden masses were captivated by this new soul and life breathed into Judaism, while the select group of great disciples around the Baal Shem Tov, could appreciate the scholarly and philosophical significance of these new ideas. The anecdotal stories about the legendary figures of Hasidism, offered a vivid bridge between the intellectual ideas, and the spiritual, emotional enthusiasm they inspired. Implicit in Hasidic tales are the new doctrines of Hasidism, as the new interpretations of Torah taught by its leaders, were also lived in all facets of their life and leadership, and their new paths to serving God. This gave birth to new Jewish practices in the lives of their followers that also reflected the new teachings of the movement.

Each school of Hasidic thought adopted different approaches and interpretations of Hasidism. Some put primary emphasis on the new practices and customs ("Darkei Hasidus"-the Ways of Hasidus) that encouraged emotional enthusiasm, and attached the followers to the holy influence of their leaders, and some put their main emphasis on scholarly learning of the Hasidic teachings of their leaders ("Limmud Hasidus"-the Learning of Hasidus). Some groups have seen the Hasidic way as an added warmth to a more mainstream Jewish observance (like "icing on the cake" of Talmudic learning), while others have placed the learning of the writings of their school, on a more comparable level to learning the exoteric parts of Judaism. These differences are reflected in different styles of Hasidic thought, that were shaped by original and innovative thinkers. Some articulated more emotional or poetic descriptions of Hasidic mysticism, that inspire practical encouragement in Jewish observance, or sensitise the hearts of their followers to transcendent spirituality. Some charismatic leaders in Hasidic history personified particular qualities, and centred their teachings around practical outcomes of this. Others gave a more intellectual analysis of Hasidic thought, aiming their followers to be able to more deeply internalise spiritual awareness and feeling, each person at their level of understanding.

The disciples of Dov Ber of Mezeritch spread Hasidism throughout Eastern Europe

This diversity mirrors the historic development of Hasidism. From late Medieval times, Central and Eastern European Kabbalistic figures called Baal Shem encouraged the influence of Jewish mysticism, through groups of Nistarim (Hidden mystics). With the teaching of the Baal Shem Tov (1698–1760), centred on Podolia (Ukraine), the new ideas of Hasidism were conveyed initially in emotional forms. After his death, his great disciples appointed Dov Ber of Mezeritch (1700?–1772) (The Maggid of Mezeritch) to succeed him. Under the leadership of the Maggid, the new movement was consolidated, and the teachings explained and developed. The Baal Shem Tov was a leader for the people, travelling around with his saintly followers, bringing encouragement and comfort to the simple masses. Dov Ber, whose ill health prevented him from travel, devoted his main focus to developing around himself a close circle of great, scholarly followers (called the "Hevra Kaddisha"-Holy Society) who were to become the individual leaders of the next generation, appointed different territories across Jewish Eastern Europe to spread Hasidism to. They formed different interpretations of Hasidic thought, from profound insight in mystical psychology, to philosophical intellectual articulations. Many of the Hasidic leaders of the third generation, occupy revered places in Hasidic history, or influenced subsequent schools of thought. Among them are Elimelech of Lizhensk, who fully developed the Hasidic doctrine of the Tzaddik (mystical leader) that gave birth to many Polish Rebbes, and his charismatic brother Meshulam Zushya of Anipoli. Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev became the renowned defender of the people before the Heavenly Court, while Shneur Zalman of Liadi initiated the Habad school of intellectual Hasidism. Subsequent Hasidic leaders include Nachman of Breslav, the most imaginative and poetic Hasidic mystic, and the ascetic seeker of psychological integrity Menachem Mendel of Kotzk. Dynastic succession of leadership developed (Hasidic dynasties), where in some courts, such as Yisroel Friedman of Ruzhyn, the Rebbe would conduct himself with regal majesty.

The encounter of Judaism in the different Jewish communities of Europe with modern thought, led to different philosophical interpretations of Judaism today. It has been said that the three figures of the Baal Shem Tov (Hasidic spirituality), the Vilna Gaon (Lithuanian Jewish Orthodox scholarship), and Moses Mendelssohn (the founding influence on the secularising Haskalah movement), have each influenced the range of Jewish responses today, through inspiration or counter-reaction. Initial schisms could lead to beneficial synthesis. The division between Hasidic and Mitnagdic Orthodoxy characterised Eastern European Judaism, but from the mid-19th century onwards they became reconciled in response to the Haskalah. The early rejection of Jewish mysticism by the reformers of Haskalah, led to a renewed interest in the 20th century from academia (begun by Gershom Scholem) and Jewish Renewal (Neo Hasidic) movements.

Characteristic ideas

Conduct

Main articles: Devekut, Jewish meditation and Rebbe
Hasidic spirituality was expressed in joyful dveikut cleaving to God

"When you see the donkey (Hebrew: chamor) of your enemy lying under its burden, you might refrain from helping it; you must aid it" - When you carefully examine your "chomer" (English: materiality), your body, you will see "your enemy", that it restricts your Divine soul that longs for Godliness and the spiritual. You will see that it "lies under its burden" placed upon it by God, that it should become refined through Torah and Jewish observance, as the body is reluctant and materialistic. It may occur to you that "you will refrain from helping it", to enable it to fulfill its mission, and instead you will follow the path of asceticism, to break down the body's resistance to spirituality. However, not in this approach will the light of Torah reside, rather "you must aid it" by purifying and refining the body, rather than breaking it. This superior elevation transforms the body into a vehicle for the essential Divine purpose in physical Creation.[8]

Hasidism extolled love and encouragement of the sincere unlearned Jewish folk. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev was renowned for his dialogue with God, arguing in their defence before the Heavenly Court. The Baal Shem Tov taught self-sacrifice through negation of ego to help another person
The Hasidic Rebbe exemplified new interpretations of the mystical doctrine of the Tzadik, embodying Divinity in the mundane and channelling spiritual and physical blessing to the followers. Alternate forms of Hasidism were shaped through different approaches to leadership

One Hasidic Master related that he visited the court of Dov Ber of Mezeritch to "see how he tied his shoelaces"[11]

Goals

  1. Revival: At the time when Rabbi Yisrael Ba'al Shem Tov founded Hasidism, the Jews were physically crushed by massacres (in particular, those of the Cossack leader Chmelnitzki in 1648-1649) and poverty, and spiritually crushed by the disappointment engendered by the false messiahs. This unfortunate combination caused religious observance to seriously wane. This was especially true in Eastern Europe, where Hasidism began. Hasidism came to revive the Jews physically and spiritually. It focused on helping Jews establish themselves financially, and then lifting their morale and religious observance through its teachings.
  2. Piety: A Hasid, in classic Torah literature, refers to one of piety beyond the letter of the law. Hasidism demands and aims at cultivating this extra degree of piety. Not from a legal perspective, but out of love of the Creator.
  3. Refinement: Hasidism teaches that one should not merely strive to improve one's character by learning new habits and manners. Rather a person should completely change the quality, depth and maturity of one's nature. This change is accomplished slowly by carrying out the practices of Hasidic Philosophy, and travelling to see the Rebbe, the leader of the Hasidic sect to which one belongs.
  4. Demystification: In Hasidism, it is believed that the esoteric teachings of Kabbalah can be made understandable to everyone. This understanding is meant to help refine a person, as well as adding depth and vigor to one's ritual observance.

In general, Hasidism claims to prepare the world for Moshiach, the Jewish Messiah, through these four achievements.

In a letter, the Ba'al Shem Tov describes how one Rosh Hashana his soul ascended to the chamber of Moshiach, where he asked Moshiach, "when will the master (Moshiach) come." Moshiach answered him, "when the wellsprings of your teachings, which I have taught you, will be spread out."

Mystical theology

Hasidic philosophy teaches that knowledge of God is the essence of the Torah and of everything in the world.[5] Hasidic Philosophy (along with Kabbalah) is also known as "Pnimiyut HaTorah", the Inner Dimension of the Torah. The first premise of Hasidic Philosophy is God and His unity: that God transcends everything and, yet, is found in everything.[5] God transcends all forms and limitations, even the most sublime. To God all forms are equal, and so His intents can be discovered in all of them equally. All existence is an expression of His Being. In the Baal Shem Tov's words, "God is everything and everything is God."

(This is a very subtle and difficult subject, based on the Kabbalistic doctrine of Tzimtzum, and not to be confused with Pantheism, which is heretical in Jewish belief. Charges of Pantheistic tendencies were incorrectly ascribed to Hasidism, by their its religious opponents (Mitnagdim), and by historians of the later, secularising Haskalah movement. This was partly done out of mistaken fear that Hasidism was another mystical heresy, like the Sabbatean following, from the recent past. Pantheism equates God with nature, and because it denies the transcendence of God, is opposite in tendency to Hasidism. In Jewish mystical thought, God is so unlimited, that He is also able to express Himself in the finite world of nature. This is more accurately described as a Jewish version of Panentheism-"All is within God").

This premise means that everything is an infinite revelation of God, even the smallest and most trivial thing. This basic axiom leads to four points which are the pillars of the Ba'al Shem Tov's approach:

  1. Torah: According to the Ba'al Shem Tov the Torah is all God's "names." This means that every detail of the Torah is an infinite revelation of God, and there is no end to what we can discover from it. Just as God is infinite so is the meaning of the Torah infinite. The Ba'al Shem Tov often explains a verse or word in unconventional, and sometimes contradictory ways, only to show how all of these interpretations connect and are one. The Baal Shem Tov would even explain how all of the combinations of a word's letters connect.
  2. Divine Providence: a) According to the Ba'al Shem Tov every event is guided by Divine Providence. Even the way a leaf blows in the wind, is part of the Divine plan. b) Every detail is essential to the perfection of the entire world. If things were not exactly this way, the entire Divine plan would not be fulfilled. c) This Divine purpose is what creates and gives life to this thing. Thus, its entire existence is Divine. Based on this, the Ba'al Shem Tov preached that one must learn a Godly lesson in everything one encounters. Ignoring His presence in any factor of existence is seen as a spiritual loss.
  3. Inherent Value: The Ba'al Shem Tov teaches that even a simple Jew is inherently as valuable as a great sage. For all Jews are "God's children" (Deuteronomy 14:1), and a child mirrors his father's image and nature. And, just as God is eternal and his Torah and Commandments are eternal, so are his people eternal. Even the least Jew is seen as a crown that glorifies God.
  4. Brotherly Love: The command to love another, according to the Baal Shem Tov, does not mean simply being nice. Rather, one must constantly strive to banish negative traits and cultivate good ones. This command encompasses one's entire life.

Other aspects of the Ba'al Shem Tov's approach: One should strive to permanently rectify negativity and not just suppress it. The effort in one's divine service is most important. If God wanted perfection, He would not have created us with faults and struggles. Rather, God desires our effort and struggle and challenges.

Definition and relation to the other levels of Torah interpretation, and to mainstream Jewish philosophy

Four levels of Torah interpretation (Pardes)

Classic Jewish teachings interpret each verse of the Torah (and often, other Jewish Scriptures from the Tanach-the Hebrew Bible, that are held to be revealed by "Nevuah"-Prophecy or the lower level of "Ruach Hakodesh"-Divine Spirit, also occasionally applied to the Oral Tradition, liturgy, etc.) on four levels. They are:

The first letters of these 4 words spell the word Pardes-"Orchard". Each successive level of exegesis gives a more esoteric and spiritual explanation of the Biblical text. The first 3 methods are used in the part of Judaism described as "Nigleh"-"Revealed", comprising many classic Bible commentaries, the Talmudic literature, Halachic works, Medieval Philosophy etc., that frames Jewish thought from man's perspective and intellectual terms. This was historically the main part of Jewish study. The 4th level is involved in the "Nistar"-"Hidden" aspect of Judaism, that is found in the books of Kabbalah and some other classic Bible commentators. This is a spiritually orientated study, explaining Judaism in metaphysical terms, "God's intellect" drawn progressively down into human comprehension. "Toras haHasidus", the teachings of Hasidus, are also considered part of Nistar, and often also utilise Kabbalistic terminology, but what is the true nature of Hasidic thought? Is it part of Sod, as is commonly thought? What is the difference between Kabbalah and Hasidus? Is it hidden in the way that Kabbalah can only truly be sensed by the most advanced student? Does not Hasidic thought have multiple forms of expression, from the principles inherent in legendary spiritual stories, to the analytical texts that speak to the soul? If a Hasidic parable or short explanation can avoid all words of Kabbalah, does Hasidus not also relate to Pshat, Remez and Drush?

Origin of the Jewish mystical tradition

After Biblical references to esoteric descriptions of the Divine, texts devoted to mysticism in Judaism first emerge in the "Merkavah" vision by the prophet Ezekiel found in the Book of Ezekiel chapter 1,[12] in the literature of the Second Temple period[13] and the "Heichalot (or Hekalot)" literature from the geonic period.[14] The distinctive works of the Kabbalah first appear in 13th Century Spain and France. Kabbalists differ with the general view of secular scholarship, by holding that the source of the main Kabbalistic work, the Zohar, lies over a thousand years earlier with Shimon bar Yochai, and they believe the hidden transmission to continue further back to Mount Sinai, and beyond. The Medieval flowering of Kabbalah gained greater momentum after the expulsion from Spain in 1492, which encouraged greater mystical endeavour in response to the tragedy. With the 16th Century school of Safed, the Kabbalah reached its complete structure, with the successive Kabbalistic systems of Moses Cordovero and Isaac Luria. While reserved for the scholarly elite, it became mainstream to Jewish thought and religious life. It replaced the earlier Aristotelian school of Philosophy, as the authoritative and complete Jewish theology. Its concepts infused the prayerbook and folklore. In the Ashkenazi world of European Jewry, the distorted mysticism and apostasy of Shabbetai Zvi in 1665-6, brought about restrictions to the spread of Kabbalah, and its popularisers were looked on with suspicion. It was such concern that later informed the opposition from the Mitnagdim("Opposers"), to the mystical revivalism and revolution of Hasidism, that for a few generations split the world of Eastern European Jewry. More recently, after Hasidus had replaced Kabbalah as the predominant European Jewish mystical expression, the spread of the Haskalah("Intellectualism", reframing Judaism from the perspective of the secular Enlightenment) from Western Europe eastwards, became the second influence that restricted the mystical in Judaism. However, the new academic study of Jewish mysticism, and a new interest in Hasidism and Kabbalah across the spectrum of Jewish denominations in the 20th Century, have reversed the legacy of these trends today. The Sephardi world of Oriental Jewry was more remote from these challenges to mysticism, and so maintained on the whole, its tradition of Kabbalah in its mainstream life, even without the European input of Hasidism. Nonetheless, in the last two generations some Sephardi communities have come under the influence of Hasidism, especially the outreach movements of Habad and Breslav.

Significance of the Kabbalistic system to mainstream Jewish tradition

The hidden dimension of Judaism described in the Kabbalah is not separate from the revealed dimension of mainstream tradition, but accompanies and explains it on a deeper and spiritual level. Looking at the reasons given in Judaism for the commandments of Jewish observance, and the purpose of Creation in general, can illustrate the significance of Nistar to the rest of Jewish thought. The Torah outlines the commandments of Jewish observance with occasional explanations, later Scriptures movingly encourage their observance in Prophetic admonishment and transfigured poetry, the Talmud codifies the law, and the Midrash imaginatively describes how Jewish observance affects God in human psychological terms. The Commentators, Philosophers, and Masters of Musar give explanations for the commandments on various symbolic, psychological, and ethical levels as to their particular significances and reasons. With all this, the commandments are given many meanings, and the spiritual path of mainstream tradition awakens in the individual psychology, feelings of sensitivity and responsibility to their fellow man and to their Heavenly Father. Philosophically, however, for the person who only studies the revealed dimension of Judaism, ultimately the commandments are observed because they are Divine decrees, and the reasons given are not absolute. It is clear that this applies to the ritual commandments, where God could have asked for different practices, and reasons given for them in Nigleh are symbolic. But the ethical commandments encouraging caring behaviour, and forbidding cruel behaviour, would seem to have reason why God would instruct them. However, since God is infinite and has no needs, according to human intellect, then the purpose of the commandments is for the improvement and benefit of man. This is the usual view of Jewish Philosophy within the revealed part of Judaism, without the influence of Kabbalah. The hidden dimension of Nistar in Judaism, is a Divine aspect of intellect, and is not limited to boundaries of human logic. The Torah of Nistar is able to approach the limitless mystery of infinitude that is expressed in Divine paradox. In the mainstream philosophical view, the ethical commandments are given for man's benefit, to encourage him to resemble the goodness of God and rise in holiness. True goodness for man only lies in the superior life of the soul, rather than the temporary life of physicality. The ultimate attainment of this is the eternal reward of the hereafter, and Messianic era. So the greatest purpose of the commandments is their gift of a chance to earn this reward. As will be explained later, one of the characteristic qualities of Hasidic thought is that it brings the Hasid to a selfless nullification in serving God, where the idea of looking for reward is felt to be impure and repulsive. However, according to Nigleh without Kabbalistic thought, the greatest purpose why God commanded even the ethical laws is to give man a test, through which he can receive eternal reward. Nonetheless, according to this human perspective, where God has no needs, why should it inherently matter if man is good or not? It therefore seems that also the ethical precepts of Judaism depend on Divine decree.

The complete mystical system depicted in Lurianic Kabbalah introduces new teachings (new revelations from the perspective of Jewish belief) that transform Jewish mysticism and its power of explanation. In the "Kabbalah of the Ari" (Isaac Luria), metaphysical reasons for the commandments are given that describe how the revelations in the upper, spiritual Worlds, and the messianic work of redemption in all levels of Creation, depends upon the sanctifying conduct of each individual in this World. The introduction of the cosmic event of the "Breaking of the Vessels" in the primordial World of "Tohu"(Chaos), before our order of Creation, gives rise to fallen sparks of holiness that infuse all matter. The spiritual service of separating and elevating the fallen sparks, through the present Worlds of "Tikkun"(Fixing), is accomplished by observance of the Jewish precepts that are taught in the revealed dimension of Judaism. Particular explanations of each commandment's metaphysical function are given, that are seen as deriving from the Scriptural words of their source. Where the Talmud interprets the verses of the Torah, according to its rules, to learn out details of law – in this study the same words are seen as offering spiritual explanations, derived by applying the esoteric textual rules of Kabbalah. This idea of the redemption of the fallen sparks of holiness, gives innovative sanctity to mundane reality, and yet is also traditionally conformative – the effect of redemption is achieved whether one is aware of it or not. This radical doctrine depends on, and is inseparable from the revealed dimension of Judaism, and the observance of daily Halacha (Jewish law). For the student of Kabbalah, the "soul" of the observance, its "kavanah"(intention) can be different. It remains a matter of opinion whether one's intention can be directed to achieving the Kabbalistic rectification of the commandment, the redemption of Divine manifestations throughout the levels of existence. Alternatively, the Kabbalistic scheme can open the door to greater "dveikus"(cleaving) to God Himself, the Divine essence. As this illustrates, the intricate explanations of Kabbalah, which describe the effect of man on the systems of Divine manifestation in the spiritual Worlds, are inseparable from the revealed aspects of Judaism.

To the Medieval school of Jewish Philosophy, that framed Judaism in light of Greek thought and human intellect, God the Infinite has no needs. As the student of Torah ascends through the thought of the Pardes system, as the interpretations become more inward and spiritual, it becomes progressively understood that God desires man's observance of the Jewish precepts, so to speak. With the hidden dimension of "Penimiut haTorah"(the "Inner" mystical level of Nistar) the thought describes how, in the purpose of Creation that God chose to take upon Himself, man is needed to fulfil the redemption. So why ultimately, would God have set up such a system? Surely He had no needs to be met. Judaism gives various answers, and Nistar gives its own reasons and explanations. Explanations range from "it is in the nature of the good to do good", to Creation being a process of God knowing Himself, each answer reflecting a different aspect of Divinity. Hasidus focuses on the most essential reason, that most describes the infinite ability and unknowability of Divine paradox, beyond human grasp, reflected in the description of Nistar("hidden") for the mystical levels of Judaism. In this explanation the purpose of Creation is that "God desired a dwelling place in the lower realms" - it is man who transforms the mundane, lowest World into an abode for God's essence. In Jewish belief, its fulfilment will be revealed in the cumulation of Creation, in the era of resurrection, in the physical World. The word "desire", best summarises the essential wish, because in Kabbalistic explanation this is desire rooted in God's essence, above rationality.

New mystical tradition

Emotional aspects of Hasidism: Present Kaliver Rebbe at left. Growing up as a shephard boy before being brought to Hasidism, Yitzchak Isaac Taub (1744-1828) of Kaliv later adapted Hungarian folk songs to serve Hasidic mystical fervour. "The rooster crows, Dawn brightens the sky.."[15] Hasidic emotion received musical expression in distinctive forms of nigun melody
Imaginative aspects of Hasidism: Nachman of Breslov articulated the most poetic interpretation of Hasidic thought. His autobiographical accounts shaped a path of creative faith. The 13 Sippurei Ma'asiyot Wonder-Tales of Royalty and Sages, animals and forests give artistic literary personification to Hasidic thought and are studied for Kabbalistic allusions and devotion[16]

Hasidism, the most recent expression of the Jewish mystical tradition, is founded upon the earlier Kabbalah. In the 18th century the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of the Hasidic movement, reframed Jewish spirituality in a new paradigm, which described the Kabbalah in relation to man. This represented a profound change in the expression of Jewish mysticism, because it left aside the Heavenly focus of Kabbalistic understanding, which had required enormous intricacy and subtle esoteric categorisation, that had only been accessible to great scholars. The new path of the Baal Shem Tov related Kabbalistic ideas to human psychological experience, that was accessible to every person. The follower of the Baal Shem Tov, and later Hasidic Masters, was given the ability to perceive the Divine here in this world, through the sensitivity of their heart, and grasp of their mind to Godliness. Biblical and Rabbinic thought describes the two feelings of love and fear(awe) of God, as the basis of Jewish observance and the experience of holiness. In this quest of the spirit, various levels of both are described, and paths to develop them are given. The variety of Scriptural, practical and spiritual texts in the Jewish tradition can awaken in a sympathetic reader many responses, from poetical delight to intellectual reverence. If the reader feels through them an encounter with Divinity, they can inspire personal shades of love and awe, in proportion to each individual's understanding. To the Medieval school of intellectual Philosophy, additionally, considering the wonders of Creation offered another path to seeing Divine Providence. The spiritual teachings of the Hasidic Masters, that brought mysticism into tangible grasp, awakened soulful, innermost levels of the two main feelings of love and awe of God, and their derivatives. The teachings of Kabbalah include discussion of the Divine spark in the soul of man, and the unique embrace of God inherent in the commandments of the Torah. By referring the whole mystical tradition around this Godly essence, higher than the Heavenly emanations, the Hasidic path uncovered the inner simple essence of the Kabbalah. Because this approach was rooted in the essential unity of God rather than the elaborate Divine manifestations, it could be conveyed to the whole community of Israel, great and small alike. The teachings, stories and conduct of the Baal Shem Tov uncovered this essential holiness in sincerity to God and one's fellow man, which came naturally to the unlearned, who had previously been looked down to, by those more spiritually adept, and who now could learn from them lessons in serving God. The Baal Shem Tov reached out to two groups of people: the simple unlearned masses whom he encouraged and invigorated, and the great Torah scholars who formed a close circle of saintly mystics around him. He would teach both groups with short, mystical Torah explanations, parables and stories that alluded to the inner meaning of Kabbalistic ideas. To the simple masses this was the first time Jewish mysticism had been conveyed in a way they could grasp, while his close circle understood the profound nature of the ideas alluded to. This "Holy Society" of saintly followers would later go on to become Hasidic Masters themselves, in the second generation under the leadership of Dov Ber of Mezeritch, and in the third generation diversifying into many branches across Eastern Europe.

Systematic articulation

Intellectual aspects of Hasidism: Sholom Dovber Schneersohn called the "Maimonides" of Hasidut in Habad for his new systematic development of Hasidic thought. Habad differed from mainstream Hasidic fervour by seeking the philosophical investigation and contemplative internalisation of its mystical spirituality. This stressed the mind as the route to the heart[17]

This idea, that the new path begun by the Baal Shem Tov, opened up the mystical tradition to everyone, however is not the complete explanation of the relationship of Hasidus to the other parts of Torah. According to this characteristic quality, Hasidus gave every person a perception of the Divine, and made Kabbalistic explanations understandable. As its inner meaning, or "soul", the esoteric terminology of Kabbalah could now be made alive, and emotionally invigorating. In this way, Hasidus might be viewed as a vital commentary on Kabbalah. Indeed, during the secular Haskalah-Jewish Enlightenment, many scholars who were disparaging of mysticism saw the Baal Shem Tov only as a populariser of Kabbalah. However, there is a deeper explanation. One follower of Dov Ber, Shneur Zalman of Liadi, was the founder of Habad-a Kabbalistic acronym for the intellectual powers of the soul, that expressed the "wellsprings" of the Baal Shem Tov in systematic intellectual form. This approach was very different from the other schools of Hasidism, and at first glance looked to be the opposite of the path of the Baal Shem Tov, who had emphasised simple sincerity. Shneur Zalman's approach used an intellectual contemplation of understanding inner Torah concepts to achieve elevated states, as opposed to the mainstream aim to arouse the emotions by devotion in prayer. All approaches, however, aim to evoke the emotions of love and fear of God, which are the two 'wings' on which a person can elevate himself to the direct perception of the Divine. His main work, the Tanya became established as a classic, inspirational text, and was studied by other Hasidic paths even though they did not follow its methods. The approach of Habad, later to be called Lubavitch after its home town, developed over 7 generations of leaders, each Rebbe explaining the teachings of Hasidus in ever greater elucidation and clarity. If the inner dimension of Nistar describes Jewish thought from God's perspective, then the increasing explanation of Hasidic philosophy through the teachings of the 7 leaders of Habad draws God's intellect down into man's comprehension. It would seem that the finite mind should not be able to grasp the infinite. However, true infinity should also find expression in the finite, a paradoxical achievement, similar to God's relation with Creation. Medieval Jewish Philosophy systematically studied Jewish thought in line with Ancient Greek methods, framing it from Man's Intellect. To some extent the abstract Kabbalistic systems of the 16th Century, elucidated a Divine image of Judaism that the Human mind could grasp, but it was not a complete understanding from Man's perspective. With the study of Habad Hasidic philosophy, that intellectually explained the inner soul of Judaism that the Baal Shem Tov and subsequent leaders had conveyed, the Divine intellectual image of Torah could be truly assimilated into Human thought. This intellectual explanation of "the Torah of the Baal Shem Tov" represents a study of the Divine – The fifth lubavitcher Rebbe Shalom Dov Ber said that Habad Hasidus enables the human mind to know God's essence. When the student contemplates deeply the concepts of Godliness delineated in Habad Hasidus, and senses emotionally the holiness, the inherent love and awe of God within the ideas, then he realises that within the idea he has grasped is true Divinity. This philosophy retains an aspect that is transcendent and beyond grasp, the Divine origin of the idea.

Philosophical explanation

On the Hasidic festival of the 19th of Kislev (traditionally described in Habad as the New Year for the Torah of Hasidus) in 1965, the 7th leader of Habad, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, gave a discourse that gave a philosophical explanation of the nature of Hasidic thought. It was later published by Kehot Publication Society in a bilingual edition as "On the essence of Chassidus". In line with the aim of Habad to articulate the inner Torah with fullest intellectual explanation, each subsequent Rebbe of Lubavitch saw their task as to spread the "wellsprings" of Hasidus to new intellectual frontiers. Each Rebbe had their own style of thought, and this discourse is an example of the depth and clarity of the last Rebbe's thought. Like the common saying found in other contexts, "standing on the shoulders of the previous generations", the explanations and emphases of each successive Rebbe was made possible by the developing teachings of their predecessors. In this discourse, the Rebbe asks what is the nature of Hasidus, and how does it differ from those parts of Torah that had been revealed until then?

While this connection with halachah is found in the esoteric explanations of Kabbalah, the simple Divine essence articulated through Hadidic philosophy brings a true, essential connection with the law. Using the example given in this discourse, the Rebbe demonstrates how the legal rulings gain new depth and clarity on their own terms, once their spiritual Hasidic explanations are understood. The mysticism of Hasidus, unlike Kabbalah, is able to descend and be revealed in all parts of Jewish thought, and gives new vitality to each level, within the style of thought of each one.

Current thought

Non-Orthodox philosopher Martin Buber (1878-1965) was the first to publicise Hasidism to the wider world. His Neo-Hasidism found the essence of Hasidism in its experiential stories. Gershom Scholem (1897—1982), who began the academic study of Jewish mysticism, found the essence of Hasidism in its scholarly theology

This discourse of the Rebbe gives a systematic explanation of the philosophical nature of Hasidism inaugurated by the Baal Shem Tov (1698–1760), and developed since then by the great Hasidic Masters, across the many different interpretations and schools of thought. The early great teachers of Hasidism, from the first few generations, are depicted through their teachings and stories as legendary figures. The later generations of the Hasidic movement, traditionally regard the spiritual stature of their leadership to have gradually declined. As the charismatic inspirations of the initial teachers receded, and with the changing social circumstances, so the spiritual ideals began to diminish. However, in the tradition of Habad, which developed separately from mainstream Hasidic paths, the followers tend to believe that their leadership avoided this decline. This derives from the differences of their approach, where the task of each leader was to communicate and explain the systematic teaching of Hasidus. The charismatic appeal to emotions was placed secondary. The dynasty of the 7 Habad leaders sought, in each generation, to broaden the articulation of the teachings, so that it could appeal to, and reach, further audiences. From this derives the view that each leader filled the place of their predecessor. While the particular emphasis of each Rebbe differed, in accord with their times and personalities, their leadership remained great. This discourse, typical of the 7th Rebbe's thought, itself represents a major contribution to Hasidic thought. In this description of Hasidus, the Rebbe teaches, using the intellectual expression of the Habad method, the loftiness of the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, and his successors. The emotional enthusiasm of Hasidism, and the popular stories and teachings of its leaders have often been emphasised by outside commentators, through the prism of their own frames of reference, that do not always do justice to the profound dimensions of Hasidic thought. These two aspects reflect the two sides of conduct ("the Ways of Hasidus"), and study ("the Learning of Hasidus"), with some Hasidic traditions emphasising one, or the other. The learning itself has often been depicted as a folk popularisarion of Kabbalah. According to the discourse "On the essence of Chassidus", implicit in the practices of Hasidism, are the profound contributions of Hasidic thought, which give a special emphasis to action. In turn, the essential meaning of the teachings is a new spiritual, and inner contribution to all levels of previous Jewish thought. This new contribution may take more poetic forms, that retain an appeal to faith. Or in other approaches, especially Habad, fullest intellectual articulation is sought.

The quality of Hasidus to permeate other levels of Torah, including the level of Pshat (the simple explanation of Torah), means that even someone on their initial stages in discovering Judaism, can relate to the enlivening wellsprings of Hasidus, and so be connected to the highest levels too. The traditional, restrictive conditions placed upon the learning of Kabbalah, were enacted in the wake of the problematic episode of Shabbetai Zvi in 1665-6. They applied to the intricate study of the abstract Kabbalah, which it is possible to misinterpret. They do not apply to Hasidic thought, even in the more Kabbalistic explanations of some texts, where the ideas are brought into personal grasp. There is such range of expression of ideas in Hasidism, from the spiritual stories of Hasidic Masters, to parables, sayings, and the wonder tales of Breslav, from informal talks offering the relevance of Hasidism to all of Torah and beyond, and to the classic and more Kabbalistic writings. When Kabbalistic terminollogy is used in Hasidic writings, it is illuminated and explained in relation to man, so that it becomes felt in the person's perception, that gives life and vitality in their daily life. This avoids the danger of misinterpretating the mystical ideas in the way that Shabbetai Zvi did. The explanation of Kabbalah into complete grasp is only given in Hasidism. Hasidus gives a way to introduce oneself to the world of Kabbalah. Furthermore, in our time of assimilation in the Jewish world, there is a need to encourage the mystical side of Judaism, including basic Kabbalistic concepts, so that the Torah becomes an enlivening inspiration. If the danger in the 17th Century was of misrepresenting ideas of Kabbalah, today the spiritual concerns are different. Alienation from the wonders of the Jewish heritage in a secular age, characterises our times. This gives each Jew the task and ability, to personify the Hasidic ideal of being a "lamplighter" to others, each person in their own environment, and to whatever degree they can. Before the lamplighter can spread their flame to another, they need to light their own soul with the warmth and contribution of Hasidus. In Judaism, observance of Halachah offers a path in daily living to sanctify life. The wisdom of the Talmud, and the visions of the Bible enthuse a person in the ideas of Judaism. In Kabbalah, but especially in Hasidus one can learn about and perceive God, the giver of the Torah.

Schools of thought

Grave of Elimelech of Lizhensk, who formulated mystical leadership into a full social doctrine of "Practical Tzadikism" in Hasidism's third generation. It became characteristic of the "Mainstream" Hasidic dynastic proliferation of Rebbes
Shneur Zalman of Liadi, founder of Chabad school, was imprisoned in St.Petersberg. His followers interpret his vindication as Heavenly permission to reveal systematic teachings
Synagogue in Izbica, Poland. The unique thought of the Izhbitz dynasty founder combined the Hasidic psychological internalisation of Kabbalah with the autonomous introspection of Przysucha-Kotzk, to guide an elite description of personal illumination

With the spread of Hasidism throughout Ukraine, Galicia, Poland, and Russia, divergent schools emerged within Hasidism:

Notable works

Title page of the collected teachings (Menorat Zahav) of Rabbi Zoushya of Hanipol, an early Hasidic luminary and member of the academy circle of the Maggid of Mezeritch
Shivchei HaBesht-In Praise of the Baal Shem Tov began Hasidic hagiographic storytelling about its Masters.[18] Hasidism gave new prominence to oral tales as a daily form of soulful worship for the layman, through cleaving to the Tzadik

Hasidic literature incorporates both classic works of mystical, philosophical Torah exegesis, and hagiographic compilations of oral tales of beloved Hasidic Masters, an example would be the collected teachings Menorat Zahav (Candelabra of Gold) by Zoussia of Anipoli (1718–1800).

The first published works of Hasidic philosophy were authored by the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov and of his successor Dovber of Mezeritch. These include: Meshulam Zushya of Anipoli (1718–1800)

Notable works of later periods include:

Classic works of the two forms of Hasidic storytelling (hagiographic stories of Hasidic Masters, and mystical parables of Kabbalistic commentary) include:

Musar

Practical aspects of Hasidism: Ger in Poland followed Menachem Mendel of Kotzk in seeking introspective integrity and objective Talmudic study, in common with non-Hasidic Mussar but in a Hasidic spirit. It rejected the mystical focus and "Popular Tzadikism" of Mainstream Hasidism

Traditional Musar literature often helps a person to appreciate the intellectual and spiritual and Godly matters to decrease attachment to the bodily and physical things. Hasidism responds that as much as one will run from physical things, one can never truly succeed in this because we are found in a physical world. Hasidism teaches that, ultimately, one must have both the spiritual and the physical together to prosper in one's service of God. This is a two step process. First one must be able to appreciate the spiritual and Godly, but then one must connect this inspiration back to seeing Godliness in the mundane world. Therefore, physicality is not suppressed, but transformed, such that it is not differentiated from divinity but is filled with it, as it serves it.[19]

Key to all wisdom

Hasidism offers an analogy to explain the difference between learning Hasidism and other parts of the Torah. It was once asked: What is the difference between Rambam and Aristotle? Torah vs. Wisdom. Both are philosophers and scientists. The answer was that Aristotle is like a person trying to draw a circle and find its center. This is a difficult job. The Torah, by contrast, starts with the center then goes and can make a circle of any size around it, and it will always be in the center. Likewise, once one grasps Hasidism, it is believed that he will have the key to all the other aspects of the Torah because he will understand its underlying message. Once the inner point of the Torah is grasped (the middle of the circle) the only job is then to learn how to put it into practice in daily life which is what the other levels teach a person to do.

Connection to the Jewish Messiah

David Moses Friedman of the Ruzhin dynasties. Yisroel Friedman of Ruzhin (1797-1850) most exemplified regal splendour in Hasidic history, such as his carriage with silver handles drawn by four horses. Claiming descent from the Davidic line, the sons' dynasties inherited this path

Hasidut is based on the concept that it is possible for the individual to achieve a direct perception of the Divine in this world. This idea is not original to Hasidut, being a basic goal of Judaism, but Hasidut emphasises that it is attainable even by the non scholar, using the simple techniques of joy and simplicity in prayer and study at all levels of expertise. Since the Messianic era is about the direct revelation of the Divine in all things, it is clear that Hasidut is offering a microcosm of the Messianic era in the present time.

Hasidism tries to find the good in everything. It does not say that the bad becomes good, but rather that in the bad itself—in the struggle—we find Godliness.

This is synonymous with the concept of the Jewish Messiah which is an era in which even things we saw as being bad we will see as being good. Life before the times of the Jewish Messiah and redemption are compared to characters living within the story. But with Moshiach we will see things from outside of the story and see how we are all like actors and God is directing the show. Outside the story, even the bad is good because the struggle is what makes the story worth reading.

We, like actors playing a role, can express freely, not trapped by the particular character we are playing. Really one can act freely with the mask. We make this self-image, thinking that we have our certain qualities and self-imposed limitations, and this stops us from expressing our true selves.

Hasidism wants us to get in touch with that essence so we are able to act in the world with whatever character is best at the time. In this way a person can come in touch with his real self and be free to choose how to act.

Hasidism tries to give us a taste of Moshiach-and bring this type of awareness into the world which itself will bring Moshiach by bringing a personal redemption to each person.

The Ba'al Shem Tov maintained that God is everything and everything is God. Torah is considered all the names of HaShem (God), not anything definite just the way you call them. So too Torah is considered infinite; one can always see more and more revealing an infinite God.

Hasidic philosophy also reemphasizes and expands upon the Jewish belief in Divine Providence. Before the Ba'al Shem Tov there was the general idea that God is watching over us. The Ba'al Shem Tov said that not only is God watching over everything, but even a feather in the wind and other seemingly minute details have infinite importance and are essential to the entire existence of creation.

Since, according to Hasidism, God is choosing everything that happens in the world without any external influences that he wants exactly like that, therefore everything that goes on is a unique expression of Him.

The purpose of Torah and Mitzvos is seen as only a revealing of that connection, not creating it (like father and son-the son may walk more or less in his father's footsteps, but this will never change the fact that he is his son. This is an essential connection).

Hasidic philosophy also stresses the concept of love of the fellow Jew. According to Hasidic philosophy, loving another fellow Jew is not just a good character trait but rather it should be one's whole life's work to cultivate good character traits.

English literature on Hasidic thought

Hasidic thought and life comprises a Jewish culture of many dimensional aspects, from emotional creativity and flavour, to psychological and spiritual insight, and profound intellectual theology and philosophy. These different elements can be connected together, so that its intellectual thought can sometimes incorporate a feeling of its charismatic poetry. The different streams and personalities in its history share ideas in common, and differences of thought and spirituality. Because of this, an overview of the range and variety of books on Hasidism offers insight into the nature of Hasidism itself, and interpretations of it from inside and outside the movement today, as well as a guide for further interest. It is important to note that books on Hasidism, like books on other aspects of Judaism, reflect alternative philosophical positions in relation to the Jewish tradition and belief. With the rise of modern thought, a number of different views emerged on the nature and meaning of the Jewish concept of Divine revelation, from the secular, through the historical, to the literal. These influential views reach a range of conclusions, and there is philosophical variety within each of the different Jewish denominations that emerged. Hasidism has offered spiritual meaning to people from all these backgrounds, and the interpretations are reflected in the range of books by Hasidic followers, and by outsiders. The Hasidic contribution to Judaism has gained adherents (Baal Teshuva-"Returnees") from secular backgrounds in the 20th Century, as well as contributing, often through Neo-Hasidism, to many non-Orthodox Jewish people's spirituality. It has also attracted the interest of many academics of Jewish thought and history, especially after the mid-Century establishment of critical investigation of Jewish mysticism as a full University discipline. A guide to suggested reading should indicate the philosophical background to different works, where it is helpful. It is also beneficial to include writings in a full range of examples, from accessible and inspiring introductions, to traditional and classic works, to academic studies. Artistic presentations can offer their own unique insight, as the soul of Hasidism articulated in its deeper thought, can often be appreciated more tangibly in poetic and transcendent works.

Biographical foundations of the general Hasidic movement:

Components of Hasidic thought:

Accounts and biographies of the variety of interpretations and streams, in the historical development of Hasidic thought: Biographical accounts of the lives of the Baal Shem Tov and Maggid of Mezeritch are listed under their own heading at the start, to offer a choice of approaches into the subject. The new inspirations and creative ideas of early forms of Hasidism, later became settled into new paths, thoughts and practices. Some thinkers offered radical reinterpretations of the legacy of the Baal Shem Tov, and of all of Jewish tradition. The books here that describe individual schools of thought in Hasidism, are some of the more well known and innovative paths Overviews of the movement and its variety of leaders:

Specific schools of thought:

Accompanying collections of Hasidic stories from across its history:

Artistic presentations of Hasidic tradition:

Studies in Hasidic thought:

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference Lamm was invoked but never defined (see the help page).

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Letter from Rabbi Yisrael Baal Shem Tov to his brother in-law Abraham Gershon of Kitov
  2. 1 2 3 Freeman, Tzvi. "What is Chassidut". Learning and Values. Chabad-Lubavitch Media Center. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  3. ↑ Ginsburgh, Rabbi Yitzchok. "What is Chassidut (Chassidic Philosophy)". AskMoses.com © 2013. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  4. 1 2 Chein, Rabbi Shlomo. "If Chassidut is so important, why wasn't it available until 300 years ago?". Chassidism. AskMoses.com © 2013. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 "?ASIDIM - ?ASIDISM". The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia. JewishEncyclopedia.com. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  6. 1 2 "?asidut - SAINT AND SAINTLINESS". The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia. JewishEncyclopedia.com. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  7. ↑ Hasidism's tradition of the Baal Shem Tov's early years is given in The Great Mission: The life and story of Rabbi Yisrael Baal Shem Tov, Eli Friedman, Kehot pub. In this account, the Baal Shem Tov learned in seclusion in the Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains with a Heavenly teacher from the age of 26 until his public revelation at 36. Previous Jewish mysticism recounts other tales of Heavenly instruction, such as the Shechina's appearance as a Maggid to the Safed mystics, and a similar account with the Vilna Gaon. Tradition identifies the Baal Shem Tov's mentor as Ahijah the Shilonite
  8. ↑ Cited by Menachem Mendel Schneerson quoting the Baal Shem Tov, in Hayom Yom daily study, Kehot publications, p. 23, with explanatory English translation footnote
  9. ↑ Lamm, Norman: Torah Lishmah: Torah for Torah's Sake in the Works of Rabbi Hayyim of Volozhin and His Contemporaries. Publisher Ktav. Norman Lamm compares Hasidic and Mitnagdic interpretations of Judaism, by examining their different attitudes to the traditional concept of learning Torah Lishmah-"Torah for its own sake". Schneur Zalman of Liadi and Chaim Volozhin are cited as the two main theoreticians of each camp. Their different interpretations are seen to be founded in different philosophical emphases on Divine immanence and Divine transcendence, rooted in different Kabbalistic interpretations of the Tzimtzum
  10. ↑ Cited in book The Great Mission: The life and story of Rabbi Yisrael Baal Shem Tov Eli Friedman, Elchonon Lesches. Kehot Publications
  11. ↑ Cited in The Great Maggid by Jacob Immanuel Schochet. Kehot Publications
  12. ↑ Ezekiel, a member of the Zadok family, among the aristocracy whom Nebuchadnezzar (597 BCE) carried off into babylonian exile 2Kings 24:14
  13. ↑ "MERKABAH - lit chariot". The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia. JewishEncyclopedia.com. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  14. ↑ "HEKALOT RABBATI; HEKALOT ZUṬARTI". The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia. JewishEncyclopedia.com. Retrieved 9 September 2013.
  15. ↑ The Singing Tzaddik English webpage about the first Kaliver Rebbe
  16. ↑ The Essential Rabbi Nachman English website compilation
  17. ↑ Overview of recent academic study of Habad Hasidic philosophy From scholarly collection Perspectives on Jewish thought and mysticism, chapter by Naftali Loewenthal, available on Google Books
  18. ↑ Life Stories: Shivhei Ha-Besht Excerpt from Founder of Hasidism: A Quest for the Historical Ba'al Shem Tov by Moshe Rosman, from www.hasidicstories.com. Describes the historical impact and scholarly views of Shivchei HaBesht
  19. ↑ "On The Contribution of Chasidus to Jewish Thought and To A Jew's Service of G-d – Appendices". Chabad.org. Retrieved 2009-05-05.
  20. ↑ This collection, the Cherson Genizah, appeared in this Russian town in the Russian revolution. It offered itself as copies of earlier documents from Yisroel Friedman of Ruzhin. Scholars have argued over its authenticity, as it offers copies of other documents, and includes scribal errors. The prevailing critical view is to reject it. But some scholarly opinions, especially from inside the Hasidic movement, authenticate it, with reservations for its errors. This debate is similar to wider academic discussion on the authenticity of the classic hagiographic collections of stories about the Baal Shem Tov that were written down posthumously. Two recent academic works on the historical Baal Shem Tov take different views on them (books by Moshe Rosman and Immanuel Etkes). For alternative views on the Cherson Genizah see The Mystical Origins of Hasidism by Rachel Elior - "Hasidic historiography" (the common critical scholarly view that rejects them), and The Great Maggid by Jacob Immanuel Schochet - long footnote about the Baal Shem Tov (scholarly acceptance). The contemporary Lubavitcher Rebbes at the time, Sholom Dov Ber Schneersohn and Yosef Yitzhak Schneersohn, spent a long time studying their authenticity before accepting them. Yosef Yitzhak incorporated them into his historical accounts of the Baal Shem Tov. The last Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, in his profound talks, saw additional spiritual meaning to the disclosure of the Cherson Genizah as new public revelations about the Baal Shem Tov.

External links

Hasidic and Jewish spirituality websites:

Other resources:

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