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((Short description|Teachings of the Hasidic movement))
((About|Hasidic philosophy|an overview of the Hasidic movement|Hasidic Judaism|the Jewish honorific|Hasid (term)|the Judean sect|Hasideans|the medieval one|Ashkenazi Hasidim))
((More citations needed|date=October 2017))
'''Hasidic philosophy''' or '''Hasidism''' (((lang-he|חסידות))), alternatively transliterated as '''Hasidut''' or '''Chassidus''', consists of the teachings of the [[Hasidic]] movement, which are the teachings of the Hasidic ''[[rebbe]]s'', often in the form of commentary on the [[Torah]] (the Five books of Moses) and [[Kabbalah]] ([[Jewish mysticism]]). Hasidism deals with a range of spiritual concepts such as [[God]], the [[soul]], and the [[Torah]], dealing with esoteric matters but often making them understandable, applicable and finding practical expressions.<ref name=freeman-chassidut>((cite web|last=Freeman|first=Tzvi|title=What is Chassidut|url=http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/1600969/jewish/Chassidut.htm|work=Learning and Values|publisher=Chabad-Lubavitch Media Center|access-date=9 September 2013))</ref><ref name=ginsburgh-chassidut>((cite web|last=Ginsburgh|first=Rabbi Yitzchok|title=What is Chassidut (Chassidic Philosophy)|url=http://www.askmoses.com/en/article/414,2258015/What-is-Chassidut-Chassidic-Philosophy.html|publisher=AskMoses.com © 2013|access-date=9 September 2013))</ref>

With the spread of Hasidism throughout Ukraine, Galicia, Poland, and Russia, divergent schools emerged within Hasidism. Some schools place more stress on intellectual understanding of the Divine, others on the emotional connection with the Divine. Some schools stress specific traits or exhibit behavior not common to other schools.((citation needed|date=October 2017)) Most if not all schools of Hasidic Judaism stress the central role of the [[Tzadik]], or spiritual and communal leader, in the life of the individual <ref>((Cite web|url=https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/hasidic-movement-a-history/|title = Hasidic Movement: A History))</ref>

Etymologically, the term, ''hasid'' is a title used for various pious individuals and by various Jewish groups since biblical times,<ref name=JE-hasidut>((cite encyclopedia|title=?asidut - SAINT AND SAINTLINESS|url=http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/12998-saint-and-saintliness|encyclopedia=The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia|publisher=JewishEncyclopedia.com.|access-date=9 September 2013))</ref> and an earlier movement, the [[Hasidei Ashkenaz]] of medieval [[Germany]] was also called by this name.<ref name=JE-hasidut/> Today, the terms ''hasidut'' and ''hasid'' generally connote Hasidic philosophy and the followers of the Hasidic movement.<ref name=freeman-chassidut/><ref name=chein-chassidut>((cite web|last=Chein|first=Rabbi Shlomo|title=If Chassidut is so important, why wasn't it available until 300 years ago?|url=http://www.askmoses.com/en/article/414,1987849/If-Chassidut-is-so-important-why-wasnt-it-available-until-300-years-ago.html|work=Chassidism|publisher=AskMoses.com © 2013|access-date=9 September 2013))</ref>

== Background ==
[[File:Baal Shem Tov's shul restored.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Rebuilt synagogue of the [[Baal Shem Tov]] in [[Medzhybizh]], Ukraine]]
Hasidic philosophy begins with the teachings of Yisroel ben Eliezer known as the [[Baal Shem Tov]] and his successors (most notably Dov Ber the [[Dov Ber of Mezeritch|Maggid of Mezeritch]] and his students). These teachings consist of new interpretations of Judaism, but are especially built upon the Jewish mystical tradition, the [[Kabbalah]]. While the Jewish mystical tradition had long been reserved for a scholarly elite, Hasidic teachings are unique in their popular access, being aimed at the masses.<ref>((cite web|url=https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/kabbalah-and-hasidism/amp/|title=Kabbalah and Hasidism - My Jewish Learning|website=www.myjewishlearning.com|date=5 August 2023 ))</ref> Hasidism is thought to be a union of three different currents in Judaism: 1) Jewish law or ''[[Halakha|halacha]]''; 2) Jewish legend and saying, the ''[[aggadah]]''; and 3) Jewish mysticism, the Kabbalah.<ref name=buber1>Friedman, Maurice S. ''Martin Buber: The Life of Dialogue''. Harper & Row Publishers. 1955. Pages 16-23.</ref> Hasidic teachings, often termed [[exegesis]], are seen as having a similar method to that of the [[Midrash]] (the rabbinic homiletic literature).<ref>''The Encyclopedia of Hasidism''. Jason Aronson, 1996. Page 122.</ref> Hasidic exegesis differs from Kabbalistic schools as it focuses somewhat less on the ''[[sefirot]]'' and ''[[partzufim]]'' and more on binary types of oppositions (e.g. body and soul).<ref>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OMlT-FViF40C&pg=PA944|title=Hebrew Bible / Old Testament: The History of Its Interpretation: II: From the Renaissance to the Enlightenment|first1=Christianus|last1=Brekelmans|first2=Magne Sæbø|last2=(Hg.)|first3=Menahem|last3=Haran|date=3 October 1996|publisher=Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht|isbn=9783525539828|via=Google Books))</ref> On the other hand, [[Louis Jacobs]] stated that Hasidic teachings should not be described as [[exegesis]] as during the course of interpretation texts are taken completely out of context to yield desired conclusions, grammar and syntax are ignored, and ideas are read into the texts that they cannot possibly mean.<ref name=polen15/>

The teachings of the Baal Shem Tov are founded on two key ideas: 1) religious [[pantheism]] (or [[panentheism]]<ref>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JPTNCwAAQBAJ&pg=PT363|title=A Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism Reader|first=Daniel M.|last=Horwitz|date=1 April 2016|publisher=U of Nebraska Press|isbn=9780827612860|via=Google Books))</ref>), or the omnipresence of God, and 2) the idea of communion between God and man.<ref name=JE-hassidism/> The doctrines of the Baal Shem Tov include the teaching of the individual's duty to serve God in every aspect of his or her daily life, the concept of [[divine providence]] as extending to every individual and even to each particular in the inanimate world, the doctrine of Continuous Creation that the true reality of all things is the "word" of God brought all things into being and continuously keeps them in existence.<ref name=mindel1>Mindel, Nissan. ''Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi: Philosophy of Chabad''. Vol 1. Chabad Research Center - Kehot Publication Society. 1969. Pages 14-15.</ref>

In line with the Kabbalah, the Baal Shem Tov taught that the end of worship of God is attachment to God (''[[devekut]]''), which primarily is the service of the heart rather than the mind. The Baal Shem Tov emphasized the rabbinic teaching "God desires the heart" as the obligation of intention of the heart (''[[kavanah]]'') in the fulfilment of the ''[[mitzvah|mitzvot]]''. Where the Baal Shem Tov departs from Kabbalah is his notion that ''devekut'' may be attained through even the sincere recitation of prayers and psalms.<ref name=mindel1/>

== Hasidic schools of thought ==
Some Hasidic "courts", and not a few individual prominent masters, developed distinct philosophies with particular accentuation of various themes in the movement's general teachings. Several of these Hasidic schools had lasting influence over many dynasties, while others died with their proponents. In the doctrinal sphere, the dynasties may be divided along many lines. Some are characterized by ''rebbe''s who are predominantly Torah scholars and [[Posek|decisors]], deriving their authority much like ordinary non-Hasidic rabbis do. Such "courts" place great emphasis on strict observance and study, and are among the most meticulous in the Orthodox world in practice. Prominent examples are the House of [[Sanz]] and its scions, such as [[Satmar (Hasidic dynasty)|Satmar]], or [[Belz (Hasidic dynasty)|Belz]]. Other sects, like [[Vizhnitz (Hasidic dynasty)|Vizhnitz]], espouse a charismatic-populist line, centered on the admiration of the masses for the Righteous, his effervescent style of prayer and conduct and his purported miracle-working capabilities. Fewer still retain a high proportion of the mystical-spiritualist themes of early Hasidism, and encourage members to study much kabbalistic literature and (carefully) engage in the field. The various [[Ziditchover]] dynasties mostly adhere to this philosophy.<ref name="RAD">Benjamin Brown, [https://www.academia.edu/4900677/ The Two Faces of Religious Radicalism - Orthodox Zealotry and Holy Sinning in Nineteenth Century Hasidism in Hungary and Galicia].</ref><ref>Stephen Sharot, [https://www.jstor.org/stable/1386127 Hasidism and the Routinization of Charisma], Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion, 1980</ref> Others still focus on [[Jewish meditation|contemplation]] and achieving inner perfection. No dynasty is wholly devoted to a single approach of the above, and all offer some combination with differing emphasis on each of those.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

Hasidism does not constitute a united movement, but a host of [[List of Hasidic dynasties|Hasidic dynasties]], united by self-understanding of common descent or evolution from the original mystical inspiration of the [[Baal Shem Tov]]. Subsequent developments of Jewish history in Eastern Europe, particularly the perceived external secularising threats of [[Haskalah]], [[Jewish emancipation|assimilation]], and late 19th century [[Jewish political movements]] like [[Zionism]], added additional political and social views to their theologies, drawn from general [[Talmud]]ic Judaism, in common reaction with their original traditionalist Rabbinic opponents, the [[Mitnagdim]]. However, the Hasidic movement can be divided into major groups and schools in its internal spirituality relationship to Hasidic [[Jewish mysticism|Jewish mystical]] thought.

The first two works of Hasidic thought published (''Toldot Yaakov Yosef'' (1780), by [[Jacob Joseph of Polnoye]], and ''Magid Devarav L'Yaakov'' (1781), by [[Dov Ber of Mezeritch]], compiled by Shlomo of Lutzk) represent the foundational thought of the [[Baal Shem Tov]], and his successor the Maggid of Mezeritch, who lived before Hasidism became a mass movement. Dov Ber of Mezeritch, the last unifying leader of most of the early elite movement, was the movement's first systematic thinker and architect, who cultivating a stellar ''Hevrah Kadisha'' (Holy Group) of disciples who would go on to disseminate Hasidic spirituality to different areas of Eastern Europe among the common masses, beginning the innovation of Hasidism's varying schools of thought.

=== Popular Tzadikism ===
[[File:Jewish cemetery in Leżajsk (Poland)1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Grave of [[Elimelech of Lizhensk]], leading disseminator of Hasidism in [[Poland]]-[[Galicia (Eastern Europe)|Galicia]]]]
Among the disciples of the Maggid of Mezeritch, [[Elimelech of Lizhensk]] (1717–1787), who founded [[Hasidic Judaism in Poland|Hasidism in Poland-Galicia]], wrote the early Hasidic classic work ''Noam Elimelech'' (1788), which developed the role of the Hasidic [[Tzadik]] into a full training of charismatic [[theurgic]] mystical "Popular/Practical Tzadikism". The work so cultivated the innovative social mysticism of leadership that it led to the proliferation of new Hasidic Tzadikim among leading disciples in Galicia and Poland. This populist "Mainstream Hasidism" praised the role of the elite tzadik in extreme formulations, which incurred the censorship of the [[Mitnagdim]]. The tzadik was depicted as the divine foundation of existence, whose task was to draw and elevate the common Jewish masses by [[charisma]]tic appeal and [[theurgic]] intercession. He cultivated their faith and emotional [[deveikut]] to the divinity that the Tzadik represented on the material plane, as a collective of the divine sparks in each person's soul. Disciples who became the subsequent popular tzadikim leaders of [[Hasidic Judaism in Poland|Polish Hasidism]] include the [[Yaakov Yitzchak of Lublin|Chozeh (Seer) of Lublin]], the [[Maggid of Koznitz]] and [[Menachem Mendel of Rimanov]].

=== Peshischa ===
((Main|Peshischa (Hasidic group)))
[[File:שמחה בונים מפשיסחה.jpg|thumb|right|130px|[[Simcha Bunim of Peshischa]], successor to [[Yaakov Yitzchak Rabinowicz|The Holy Jew]], who continued the Peshischa School of Hasidism]]
In 1812, a schism occurred between the [[Yaakov Yitzchak of Lublin|Seer of Lublin]] and his prime disciple, the [[Yaakov Yitzchak Rabinowicz|Holy Jew]] of [[Przysucha]] (Peshischa in Yiddish), due to both personal and doctrinal disagreements. The Seer adopted a populist approach, centered on the Righteous' theurgical functions to draw the masses. He was famous for his lavish, enthusiastic conduct during prayer and worship, and extremely charismatic demeanour. He stressed that as ''tzaddiq'', his mission was to influence the common folk by absorbing Divine Light and satisfying their material needs, thus converting them to his cause and elating them. The Holy Jew pursued a more introspective course, maintaining that the ''rebbe''s duty was to serve as a spiritual mentor for a more elitist group, helping them to achieve a senseless state of contemplation, aiming to restore man to his oneness with God which [[Adam]] supposedly lost when he ate the fruit of the [[Tree of the knowledge of good and evil|Tree of Knowledge]]. The Holy Jew and his successors did neither repudiate miracle working, nor did they eschew dramatic conduct; but they were much more restrained in general. The Peshischa School became dominant in [[Congress Poland|Central Poland]], while populist Hasidism resembling the Lublin ethos often prevailed in [[Kingdom of Galicia and Lodomeria|Galicia]].<ref>Dynner, pp. 29-31.</ref> One extreme and renowned philosopher who emerged from the Peshischa School was [[Menachem Mendel of Kotzk]]. Adopting an elitist, hard-line attitude, he openly denounced the folkly nature of other ''tzaddiqim'', and rejected financial support. Gathering a small group of devout scholars who sought to attain spiritual perfection, whom he often berated and mocked, he always stressed the importance of both somberness and totality, stating it was better to be fully wicked than only somewhat good.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

=== Chabad ===
((Main|Chabad philosophy))
[[File:Brockhaus and Efron Jewish Encyclopedia e16 058-0.jpg|thumb|right|150px|[[Shneur Zalman of Liadi]], founder of [[Chabad]], the intellectual school in Hasidism]]
The [[Chabad]] school, also called [[Lyubavichi, Rudnyansky District, Smolensk Oblast|Lubavitch]] after the village in White Russia where it subsequently settled, was founded by [[Shneur Zalman of Liadi]] from among the circle of Dov Ber of Mezeritch, and was elaborated over 7 generations by his successors until the late 20th century. Chabad was originally the more inclusive term, as it also generated a number of short lived offshoots, but hereditary dynasticism defined the main branch, which became publicly prominent for its outreach to the wider Jewish world under the post-war leadership of the last [[Menachem Mendel Schneerson|Lubavitcher Rebbe]]. The term ''Chabad'', an acronym for the intellectual [[sephirot]] powers of the soul, defines the thought of the movement, which emphasises the role of inward intellectual and psychological contemplation of Hasidic mysticism, in contrast to mainstream Hasidic emotionalist faith and fervour. Chabad [[Rebbe]]s, while not eschewing charismatic authority, emphasises their role as teachers and guides for the own internal work at divine contemplation of their followers. Chabad is an offshoot of Hasidism and a movement of its own,<ref>''The Jewish Religion - A Companion'', Louis Jacobs, Oxford University Press 1995, entry: Habad: "Although an offshoot of Hasidism, Habad is essentially a movement of its own, looked at with a degree of indifference and, on occasion, hostility, by the other Hasidic masters who, while admiring Shneur Zalman himself, believed that the Habad understanding of Hasidism is too intellectually oriented and too close to philosophy for comfort"</ref> characterised by its own successively articulated orientations, and with its own extensive writings that are typified by the systematic nature of their thought, with their own conceptual language.

Chabad is described in scholarship as the intellectual<ref name=Habad>''The Jewish Religion - A Companion'', Louis Jacobs, Oxford University Press 1995, entry: Habad</ref> or philosophical<ref>''Studies in East European Jewish Mysticism and Hasidism'', Joseph Weiss, Littman Library new edition 1997, chapter: The Hasidic Way of Habad. In common with initial mid-20th century academia on Hasidism, Weiss analyses only early texts of Chabad. He refers to descriptions commonly used by scholars to classify Chabad: "priority of intellect over heart", "the philosophical movement in Hasidism", terms he avoids in favour of a more [[Phenomenology of religion|phenomenological]] description: "world-nullifying mysticism". Recent academic scholarship has moved beyond concentration on early Hasidism, to show the continued creativity of its latter thought. The systematic philosophical tendency of Chabad grew successively more explicit in the 3rd Rebbe (his ''Sefer Chakira'' on medieval [[Jewish philosophy]]), the 5th Rebbe ("the [[Maimonides]] of Hasidism", the philosophical meaning of Kabbalah), and in exoteric [[Likkutei Sichos|analytical talks]] of the 7th Rebbe addressing philosophical topics</ref> school in Hasidism. These comparisons are qualified, however, by considerations that Chabad thought is not [[Jewish rationalism|rationalistic]], as it builds its philosophical investigations of divinity upon [[Lurianic Kabbalah]] and other traditional Torah sources without independent reason from first principles; though incorporating [[Maimonides|Maimonidean]] and other medieval [[Jewish philosophy]] methods, most Chabad thought is presented in a [[Kabbalistic]] theosophical framework; its aim is inward mystical self-transformation applied to self-sacrifice in [[Halakha|Jewish observance]], not [[philosophy|formal philosophical]] intellectualism; and Chabad thought retains [[Jewish mysticism|mystical revelation]] as its infinite intuitive divine essence source, drawn down into successively greater intellectual understanding by each leader of Chabad.<ref>''On the Essence of Chasidus'', Menachem M. Schneerson, Kehot 2003. "Hasidic thought is a new revelation from the inner dimensions of [[Keter]] and even higher". Appendix describes the contribution of Chabad, drawing down the divine light into intellectual comprehension, articulated more clearly by each subsequent Rebbe</ref> In Chabad thought, the [[Kabbalah|Kabbalistic]] realm is mirrored in the internal life of man, so that it develops a conceptual spiritual psychology of human life. This enables the insights of mysticism, through ''[[Hitbonenut]]'' contemplation during prayer, to be translated into inward emotions and practical action, while forming a precise analogical understanding for philosophical articulation of divinity.<ref name=Sacks>''The Encyclopedia of Hasidism'', edited by Tzvi M. Rabinowicz, Aronson 1996, entry: Habad by Jonathan Sacks</ref> Chabad theology translates the esoteric symbols of Kabbalah into [[dialectical]] terms that intellectually study divinity through internal human psychological experience. The ultimate paradox contemplated in meditative Chabad prayer is its [[Acosmism|acosmic]] [[panentheism]] that leads to ''Bittul'' self-nullification and inward ''Hitpa'alut'' ecstasy. While each Chabad leader developed and deepened these contemplative themes, the thought of the last Rebbe treated Hasidic thought not as a self-contained mystical study, but much more widely as the inner unifying divine essence of [[Pardes (Jewish exegesis)|all parts of Torah]], expressed in analytical talks that united the exoteric and esoteric, mystical and rational of Judaism, and emphasised the corresponding unity of the whole Jewish people.<ref name=Sacks/> In the theology of [[Menachem Mendel Schneerson]], the ultimate [[Atzmus|Divine essence]], expressed through Hasidism's soul essence, is revealed in [[Mitzvot|practical action]] and [[Chabad mitzvah campaigns|Jewish outreach]] that makes a messianic dwelling for God.<ref>''Heaven On Earth: Reflections on the Theology of Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe'', Faitel Levin, Kehot 2002</ref>

=== Breslov ===
[[File:Nahmantomb.JPG|thumb|right|180px|Pilgrimage gathering at [[Nachman of Breslov]]'s burial place in [[Uman]], [[Ukraine]]]]
Another renowned school of Hasidic thought, distinct from mainstream Hasidism, was formulated by [[Nachman of Breslov]] (or Bratslav), a great-grandson of the Baal Shem Tov. Nachman's creative and enigmatic individualism, coupled with the autobiographical communication of esoteric spirituality in his writings, ensured uniquely that his [[Breslov (Hasidic group)|Breslov Hasidim]] continued to follow him till today, without appointing a successor. They remained controversial with other Hasidic groups as Nachman berated false wonder-working Tzadikim, distinguishing them from the true Tzadik of the generation who cleaves to God by prophetic perfection. Nachman assumed this role, and regarded himself as a new Kabbalistic revelation in succession to [[Isaac Luria]] and the [[Baal Shem Tov]].<ref>''The Scroll of Secrets: The Hidden Messianic Vision of R. Nachman of Breslav'', Zvi Mark, Academic Studies Press 2010 - "Mark highlights the innovative self-understanding of R. Nachman and his feeling of being the final revelation of Hasidism, higher even than that of his great-grandfather, the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezerich"</ref><ref>''Mysticism and Madness: The Religious Thought of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav'', Zvi Mark, Continuum 2009, p 188-189, p 200 - "all 4 central figures whom R. Nachman saw as his spiritual predecessors: Moses, Shimon bar Yochai, the Ari, and the Baal Shem Tov"</ref> His life and teachings relate to themes of messianic rectification, including the narration of intricate imaginative folk tales with Kabbalistic and Hasidic symbolism, and the writing of esoteric hidden works.

Nachman's personality and thought comprise the anti-rational pole of Hasidism, deriding the logical limitations of [[medieval Jewish philosophy]] to reach mystical union and the revelation of the Kabbalistic Divine "Nothingness" Absolute.<ref name=Mark>''Mysticism and Madness: The Religious Thought of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav'', Zvi Mark, Continuum 2009, Chapter 2 On the Character of Mystical Experiences, Chapter 7 The Ultimate Purpose of Knowing is that We Do Not Know, Chapter 8 "The Story of the Humble King" - On Laughter and Foolishness in the Service of God</ref> Imagination occupies a central position, drawing from [[Holy Spirit in Judaism|prophecy]], and perfecting faith, new Torah revelation, melody, joy, laughter, simplicity, and [[Hitbodedut|personal secluded prayer]], by casting away the rational mind.<ref>''Mysticism and Madness: The Religious Thought of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav'', Zvi Mark, Continuum 2009, p 1: "In the world of R. Nachman of Bratslav, the imagination occupies a central position, and receives in-depth, extended attention regarding its purpose in human existence and the service of God... It is R. Nachman's deep relationship with the unrestrained nature of the imagination that characterises his entire creative output, and warrants the prominence attributed to it in his Weltanschauung."</ref> Actions of "smallness" (foolish madness) nullify the ego, and relate to the folly of material existence, and the comic playfulness of [[Mitzvot|Judaic observance]], which like the world becomes only real and Divinely meaningful with the longing and cleaving to God of [[deveikut]] mysticism.<ref>''Mysticism and Madness: The Religious Thought of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav'', Zvi Mark, Continuum 2009, Chapter 8 "The Story of the Humble King" - On Laughter and Foolishness in the Service of God</ref> Within Hasidism's paradox of [[Ayin and Yesh|Divine Immanence versus worldly reality]], Nachman portrayed the [[Existentialism|existential]] world in grim colors, as a place devoid of God's perceived presence, which the soul transcends in [[mystical]] yearning. He mocked attempts to perceive the nature of infinite-finite dialectics and the manner in which God still occupies the [[Tzimtzum|Vacant Void]] of Creation albeit not, stating these were paradoxical, beyond human understanding. Cleaving to the one true [[Tzadik]] who reaches above the void, simple faith, silence and melody confront the inevitable heresies of pre-Messianic finite reality. Mortals were in constant struggle to overcome their profane instincts, and had to free themselves from their limited intellects to see the world as it truly is. Recent scholarship has rejected earlier academic constructions of Rabbi Nachman's thought as an existentialist Hasidism of faith, versus the general movement's Hasidism of mysticism, establishing the dialectic ladder of mystical union (a mysticism of faith) that Breslovian faith communicates<ref name=Mark/>

=== The mystical borders of antinomianism ===
[[File:Kirkut wIzbicy3 napis w ohelu.jpg|thumb|right|180px|Plaque on the [[Ohel (grave)|mausoleum]] of [[Mordechai Yosef Leiner]] of Ishbitz, author of the antinomian ''Mei Hashiloach'']]
In the doctrine of the [[Tzadik]] developed in early writings of the movement, a volatile, potentially [[antinomianism|antinomian]] aspect of "transgression for the Sake of Heaven" is found, expressed in terms of the Tzadik's states of "descent" and "smallness". For the Righteous to elevate the common masses, he must occasionally descend to their level, emulating their sins for holy motives. A related early theme is the "elevation of sinful thoughts" that enter the Tzadik's mind due to sins of the community.

An antinomian strain relating to the conduct of the tzadik exists in the writings of the [[Yaakov Yitzchak of Lublin|Seer of Lublin]], which were personal notes published posthumously. For the Seer, the masses must obey [[halakha]] (revealed Divine Will) with [[Fear of God|awe]]. The task of the tzadik is to cleave to God in [[love of God|love]], whose [[charisma]]tic glow shines to the masses. The Tzadik's ecstatic abilities uncover a [[Holy Spirit in Judaism|prophetic]] hidden Divine Will of ever new revelation, that can suspend the legislated former revelation of halakha for the sake of Heaven.<ref name=Elior>Rachel Elior, ''The Mystical Origins of Hasidism'', Littman Library 2006, Chapter 11 Mystical Spirituality and Autonomous Leadership</ref>

[[Tzvi Hirsh of Zidichov]], a major Galician ''tzaddiq'', was a disciple of the Seer of Lublin, but combined his populist inclination with a strict observance even among his most common followers, and great pluralism in matters pertaining to mysticism, as those were eventually emanating from each person's unique soul.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

The tension between fixed [[Halakha|halakhic]] observance and the direct pluralist autonomy of personal mystical inspiration, a previously downplayed current in Hasidic thought, was explored fully in the thought of [[Mordechai Yosef Leiner]] of [[Izbica]] (Ishbitze in Yiddish). Combining the personal autonomy, introspection and demand for authenticity of [[Menachem Mendel of Kotzk|Kotzk]] with the mystical antinomian freedom of the Seer, he promulgated a radical understanding of [[Free will in theology|free will]], which he considered illusory and derived directly from God. He argued that when one attained a sufficient spiritual level and could be certain evil thoughts did not derive from his animalistic soul, then sudden urges to transgress revealed Law were God-inspired and may be pursued. This Messianic conduct was restricted to elite [[Judah (son of Jacob)|Yehuda]] Jews, rather than the community. Leiner saw this in unconventional exegesis of Biblical episodes that reversed standard interpretations, but in the Messianic era when the paradox will be revealed, all previous lives will be seen as determined by God. Expressing the true "depth" of multiplicity of levels in the Divine Will, and the consequent personal revelation, introspection and doubt, Leiner reversed the [[Talmud]]ic phrase to exclude free will: "all is in the hands of Heaven, ''including'' a person's fear of God". In effect, however, Leiner regulated the antinomian potential of this mystical inspiration that recalled the [[Sabbatean]] religious anarchy, by rigorous self-analysis to ensure one's motives were truly heaven sent.<ref>Joseph Weiss, ''Studies in East European Jewish Mysticism and Hasidism'', Littman Library 1997, Chapter: A Late Jewish Utopia of Religious Freedom</ref><ref name=Elior/> His successors in the [[Izhbitza – Radzin (Hasidic dynasty)|Izhbitza – Radzin]] dynasty de-emphasized it in their commentaries. Leiner's disciple [[Zadok HaKohen]] of Lublin continued the thought of his teacher, also developing a complex philosophic system which presented a dialectic nature in history, arguing that great progress had to be preceded by crisis and calamity.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

== Key concepts ==

=== God's immanence ===
The most fundamental theme underlying all Hasidic theory is the [[immanence]] of God in the universe, often expressed in a phrase from the ''[[Tikunei haZohar]]'', "Leit Atar panuy mi-néya" ([[Aramaic]]: "no site is devoid of it"). Derived from Lurianic discourse, but greatly expanded in the Hasidic one, this [[panentheistic]] concept implies that literally all of creation is suffused with divinity. In the beginning, God had to contract (''[[Tzimtzum]]'') His omnipresence or infinity, the ''[[Ein Sof]]''. Thus, a Vacant Void (''Khalal panui'') was created, bereft from obvious presence, and therefore able to entertain free will, contradictions and other phenomena seemingly separate from God Himself, which would have been impossible within His original, perfect existence. Yet, the very reality of the world which was created therein is entirely dependent on its divine origin. Matter would have been null and void without the true, spiritual essence it possesses. Just the same, the infinite ''Ein Sof'' cannot manifest in the Vacant Void, and must limit itself in the guise of measurable corporeality that may be perceived.<ref name="Elior1">Rachel Elior, [http://pluto.huji.ac.il/~mselio/yesod-42-sci.pdf יש ואין - דפוסי יסוד במחשבה החסידית], in: ''Masuʼot : meḥḳarim be-sifrut ha-ḳabalah ube-maḥshevet Yiśraʼel'', [[Bialik Institute]] (1994), ((OCLC|221873939)). pp. 53-54.</ref>

Thus, there is a dualism between the true aspect of everything and the physical side, false, but ineluctable, with each evolving into the other: as God must compress and disguise Himself, so must humans and matter in general ascend and reunite with the omnipresence. Elior quoted [[Shneur Zalman of Liadi]], in his commentary ''[[Torah Or]]'' on Genesis 28:21, who wrote that "this is the purpose of Creation, from Infinity to Finitude, so it may be reversed from the state of Finite to that of Infinity". ''Kabbalah'' stressed the importance of this dialectic, but mainly (though not exclusively) evoked it in cosmic terms, referring for example to the manner in which God progressively diminished Himself into the world through the various dimensions, or ''[[Sefirot]]''. Hasidism applied it also to the most mundane details of human existence. All Hasidic schools devoted a prominent place in their teaching, with differing accentuation, to the interchanging nature of ''Ein'', both infinite and imperceptible, becoming ''Yesh'', "Existent" – and vice versa. They used the concept as a prism to gauge the world, and the needs of the spirit in particular. [[Rachel Elior]] noted: "''reality lost its static nature and permanent value, now measured by a new standard, seeking to expose the Godly, boundless essence, manifest in its tangible, circumscribed opposite.''"<ref>Elior, p. 56.</ref>

One major derivative of this philosophy is the notion of ''[[devekut]]'', "communion". As God was everywhere, connection with Him had to be pursued ceaselessly as well, in all times, places and occasions. Such an experience was in the reach of every person, who only had to negate his inferior impulses and grasp the truth of divine immanence, enabling him to unite with it and attain the state of perfect, selfless bliss. Hasidic masters, well versed in the teachings concerning communion, are supposed not only to gain it themselves, but to guide their flock to it. ''Devekut'' was not a strictly defined experience; many varieties were described, from the utmost ecstasy of the learned leaders to the common man's more humble yet no less significant emotion during prayer.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

Closely linked with the former is ''Bitul ha-Yesh'', "Negation of the Existent", or of the "Corporeal". Hasidism teaches that while a superficial observance of the universe by the "eyes of the flesh" (''Einei ha-Basar'') purportedly reflects the reality of all things profane and worldly, a true devotee must transcend this illusory façade and realize that there is nothing but God. It is not only a matter of perception, but very practical, for it entails also abandoning material concerns and cleaving only to the true, spiritual ones, oblivious to the surrounding false distractions of life. The practitioner's success in detaching from his sense of person, and conceive himself as ''Ein'' (in the double meaning of 'naught' and 'infinite'), is regarded as the highest state of elation in Hasidism. The true divine essence of man – the soul – may then ascend and return to the upper realm, where it does not possess an existence independent from God. This ideal is termed ''Hitpashtut ha-Gashmi'yut'', "the expansion (or removal) of corporeality". It is the dialectic opposite of God's contraction into the world.<ref>Elior, pp. 60-61.</ref>

To be enlightened and capable of ''Bitul ha-Yesh'', pursuing the pure spiritual aims and defying the primitive impulses of the body, one must overcome his inferior "Bestial Soul", connected with the Eyes of the Flesh. He may be able to tap into his "Divine Soul" (''Nefesh Elohit''), which craves communion, by employing constant contemplation, ''Hitbonenot'', on the hidden Godly dimension of all that exists. Then he could understand his surroundings with the "Eyes of the Intellect". The ideal adherent was intended to develop equanimity, or ''Hishtavut'' in Hasidic parlance, toward all matters worldly, not ignoring them, but understanding their superficiality.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

Hasidic masters exhorted their followers to "negate themselves", paying as little heed as they could for worldly concerns, and thus, to clear the way for this transformation. The struggle and doubt of being torn between the belief in God's immanence and the very real sensual experience of the indifferent world is a key theme in the movement's literature. Many tracts have been devoted to the subject, acknowledging that the "callous and rude" flesh hinders one from holding fast to the ideal, and these shortcomings are extremely hard to overcome even in the purely intellectual level, a fortiori in actual life.<ref>Elior, pp. 55, 62-63.</ref>

Another implication of this dualism is the notion of "Worship through Corporeality", ''Avodah be-Gashmi'yut''. As the ''Ein Sof'' metamorphosed into substance, so may it in turn be raised back to its higher state; likewise, since the machinations in the higher ''Sephirot'' exert their influence on this world, even the most simple action may, if performed correctly and with understanding, achieve the reverse effect. According to Lurianic doctrine, The netherworld was suffused with divine sparks, concealed within "husks", ''[[qlippoth]]''. The glints had to be recovered and elevated to their proper place in the cosmos. "Materiality itself could be embraced and consecrated", noted [[Glenn Dynner]], and Hasidism taught that by common acts like dancing or eating, performed with intention, the sparks could be extricated and set free. ''Avodah be-Gashmi'yut'' had a clear, if not implicit, [[antinomian]] edge, possibly equating sacred rituals mandated by Judaism with everyday activities, granting them the same status in the believer's eyes and having him content to commit the latter at the expense of the former. While at some occasions the movement did appear to step at that direction – for example, in its early days prayer and preparation for it consumed so much time that adherents were blamed of neglecting sufficient Torah study – Hasidic masters proved highly conservative. Unlike in other, more radical sects influenced by kabbalistic ideas, like the [[Sabbateans]], Worship through Corporeality was largely limited to the elite and carefully restrained. The common adherents were taught they may engage it only mildly, through small deeds like earning money to support their leaders.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

The complementary opposite of corporeal worship, or the elation of the finite into infinite, is the concept of ''Hamshacha'', "drawing down" or "absorbing", and specifically, ''Hamschat ha-Shefa'', "absorption of effluence". During spiritual ascension, one could siphon the power animating the higher dimensions down into the material world, where it would manifest as benevolent influence of all kinds. These included spiritual enlightenment, zest in worship and other high-minded aims, but also the more prosaic health and healing, deliverance from various troubles and simple economic prosperity. Thus, a very tangible and alluring motivation to become followers emerged. Both corporeal worship and absorption allowed the masses to access, with common actions, a religious experience once deemed esoteric.<ref>Dynner, ''Men of Silk'', pp. 32-33.</ref>

Yet another reflection of the ''Ein''-''Yesh'' dialectic is pronounced in the transformation of evil to goodness and the relations between these two poles and other contradicting elements – including various traits and emotions of the human psyche, like pride and humility, purity and profanity, et cetera. Hasidic thinkers argued that in order to redeem the sparks hidden, one had to associate not merely with the corporeal, but with sin and evil. One example is the elevation of impure thoughts during prayer, transforming them to noble ones rather than repressing them, advocated mainly in the early days of the sect; or "breaking" oneself's character by directly confronting profane inclinations. This aspect, once more, had sharp antinomian implications was and used by the Sabbateans to justify excessive sinning. It was mostly toned down in late Hasidism, and even before that leaders were careful to stress that it was not exercised in the physical sense, but in the contemplative, spiritual one. This kabbalistic notion, too, was not unique to the movement and appeared frequently among other Jewish groups.<ref>The entire section is based on: Elior, ''יש ואין''; Dan, ''Teachings'', YIVO; ''Hasidism'', Judaica, pp. 410-412.</ref>

=== The ''Tzadik'' ===
While its mystical and ethical teachings are not easily sharply distinguished from those of other Jewish currents, the defining doctrine of Hasidism is that of the saintly leader, serving both as an ideal inspiration and an institutional figure around whom followers are organized. In the movement's sacral literature, this person is referred to as the ''[[Tzadik|Tzaddiq]]'', the Righteous One — often also known by the general honorific ''Admor'' (acronym of Hebrew for "our master, teacher and Rabbi"), granted to rabbis in general, or colloquially as ''rebbe''. The idea that, in every generation, there are righteous persons through whom the divine effluence is drawn to the material world is rooted in the kabbalistic thought, which also claims that one of them is supreme, the reincarnation of [[Moses]]. Hasidism elaborated the notion of the ''Tzaddiq'' into the basis of its entire system – so much that the very term gained an independent meaning within it, apart from the [[Tzadik|original which denoted God-fearing, highly observant]] people.<ref name="Assaf1">David Assaf, ''The Regal Way: The Life and Times of Rabbi Israel of Ruzhin'', Stanford University Press (2002). pp. 101-104.</ref>

When the sect began to attract following and expanded from a small circle of learned disciples to a mass movement, it became evident that its complex philosophy could be imparted only partially to the new rank and file. As even intellectuals struggled with the sublime dialectics of infinity and corporeality, there was little hope to have the common folk truly internalize these, not as mere abstractions to pay lip service to.<ref>Elior, p. 65.</ref>
Ideologues exhorted them to have faith, but the true answer, which marked their rise as a distinct sect, was the concept of the ''Tzaddiq''. A Hasidic master was to serve as a living embodiment of the recondite teachings. He was able to transcend matter, gain spiritual communion, Worship through Corporeality and fulfill all the theoretical ideals. As the vast majority of his flock could not do so themselves, they were to cleave to him instead, acquiring at least some semblance of those vicariously. His commanding and often — especially in the early generations — charismatic presence was to reassure the faithful and demonstrate the truth in Hasidic philosophy by countering doubts and despair. But more than spiritual welfare was concerned: Since it was believed he could ascend to the higher realms, the leader was able to harvest effluence and bring it down upon his adherents, providing them with very material benefits. "''The crystallization of that [[theurgical]] phase''", noted [[Glenn Dynner]], "''marked Hasidism's evolution into a full-fledged social movement.''"<ref>Dynner, p. 7.</ref>

In Hasidic discourse, the willingness of the leader to sacrifice the ecstasy and fulfillment of unity in God was deemed a heavy sacrifice undertook for the benefit of the congregation. His followers were to sustain and especially to obey him, as he possessed superior knowledge and insight gained through communion. The "descent of the Righteous" (''Yeridat ha-Tzaddiq'') into the matters of the world was depicted as identical with the need to save the sinners and redeem the sparks concealed in the most lowly places. Such a link between his functions as communal leader and spiritual guide legitimized the political power he wielded. It also prevented a retreat of Hasidic masters into hermitism and passivity, as many mystics before them did. Their worldly authority was perceived as part of their long-term mission to elevate the corporeal world back into divine infinity.<ref name="AA">Elior, pp. 66-68; Dynner, pp. 20-21.</ref> To a certain extent, the Saint even fulfilled for his congregation, and for it alone, a limited [[Messiah in Judaism|Messianic]] capacity in his lifetime. After the Sabbatean debacle, this moderate approach provided a safe outlet for the eschatological urges. At least two leaders radicalized in this sphere and caused severe controversy: [[Nachman of Breslov]], who declared himself the only true ''Tzaddiq'', and [[Menachem Mendel Schneerson]], whom many of his followers believed to be the Messiah. The ''rebbe''s were subject to intense hagiography, even subtly compared with Biblical figures by employing prefiguration.<ref name="Dan2"/> It was argued that since followers could not "negate themselves" sufficiently to transcend matter, they should instead "negate themselves" in submission to the Saint (''hitbatlut la-Tzaddiq''), thus bonding with him and enabling themselves to access what he achieved in terms of spirituality. The Righteous served as a mystical bridge, drawing down effluence and elevating the prayers and petitions of his admirers.<ref name="AA"/>

The Saintly forged a well-defined relationship with the masses: they provided the latter with inspiration, were consulted in all matters, and were expected to intercede on behalf of their adherents with God and ensure they gained financial prosperity, health and male offspring. The pattern still characterizes Hasidic sects, though prolonged routinization in many turned the ''rebbes'' into de facto political leaders of strong, institutionalized communities. The role of a Saint was obtained by charisma, erudition and appeal in the early days of Hasidism. But by the dawn of the 19th century, the Righteous began to claim legitimacy by descent to the masters of the past, arguing that since they linked matter with infinity, their abilities had to be associated with their own corporeal body. Therefore, it was accepted "there can be no ''Tzaddiq'' but the son of a ''Tzaddiq''". Virtually all modern sects maintain this hereditary principle. For example, the ''rebbe''s' families maintain endogamy and marry almost solely with scions of other dynasties.<ref>Assaf, ''Regal Way'', pp. 108-110.</ref>

=== Other concepts ===
* '''''[[Devekut]]''''' (Hebrew: דביקות - "cleaving") – The "attachment" or "adherence" to God is a state of worship which goes beyond ecstasy (''hitlahavut''). ''Devekut'' is described as the state of self-transcendence into the divine. It is understood to be the highest goal of Jewish mystical striving.<ref name=green1>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vaAunWWj-CMC&pg=PA129|title=These are the Words: A Vocabulary of Jewish Spiritual Life|first=Arthur|last=Green|date=8 October 2017|publisher=Jewish Lights Publishing|isbn=9781580234948|via=Google Books))</ref> Some scholars have maintained that Hasidism is distinguished by its insistence that the starting point of religious life is complete adhesion to and communion with God.<ref>((cite web|url=http://www.yivoencyclopedia.org/printarticle.aspx?id=182|title=YIVO - Hasidism: Teachings and Literature|website=www.yivoencyclopedia.org))</ref> According to [[Gershom Scholem]], the originality of Hasidism lies in the fact that the mystics of the movement did not simply cherish their attainment of ''devekut'' but undertook to teach its secrets to all.<ref>Scholem, Gershom. ''Major Trends in Jewish Mysticism''. Knopf Doubleday.</ref>((rp|342)) In Hasidism, ''devekut'' is an ideal to be striven for by both the saintly as well as the average Jew, though hasidic thinkers generally add that it is only the saint who can maintain a life of ''devekut'' and that his followers can be led to its approximation only through their attachment to the saintly man.<ref>((cite web|url=https://louisjacobs.org/encyclopedia-entries/devekut/|title=Devekut - Friends of Louis Jacobs|date=8 June 2016))</ref> Hasidism uses ''devekut'' in a more casual and general way, instructing its followers to seek a life of ''devekut'' where one's mind is always concentrating on God. Techniques for this purpose were inherited from the Kabbalah, including meditation on the four lettered name of God (''Y-H-V-H'').<ref name=green1/>
* '''''Hispashtut hagashmiut''''' (((lang-he|התפשטות הגשמיות)) "divestment of corporeality") – This is understood as a spiritual practice where one regards his or her body as being ina state of union with the rest of the world.<ref>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jmrgoeaQvlwC&pg=PA190|title=Everything Is God: The Radical Path of Nondual Judaism|first=Jay|last=Michaelson|date=13 October 2009|publisher=Shambhala Publications|isbn=9780834824003|via=Google Books))</ref> ''Hitpashtut hagashmiut'' is the stripping-away of materialism, allowing one to abolish his or her own selfhood (''yesh''), becoming a part of the divine will.<ref>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=5-GReIgLxUsC&pg=PA247|title=God's Voice from the Void: Old and New Studies in Bratslav Hasidism|first=Shaul|last=Magid|date=1 February 2012|publisher=SUNY Press|isbn=9780791489567|via=Google Books))</ref> ''Hitpashtut hagashmiut'' occurs during the height of the ''devekut'' experience, where the Hasid is able to dissolve the forces of the ego, making it possible for the soul to be reunited with its divine source.<ref>((cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hrGOTvSRXfAC&pg=PA13|title=Hasidic Responses to the Holocaust in the Light of Hasidic Thought|first=Pesach|last=Schindler|date=8 October 1990|publisher=KTAV Publishing House, Inc.|isbn=9780881253108|via=Google Books))</ref>
* '''Godliness in all Matter''' – Hasidism emphasises the previous Jewish mystical idea to extract and elevate the Divine in all material things, both animate and inanimate. As taught in earlier Kabbalistic teachings from [[Isaac Luria]], all worldly matter is imbued with ''nitzotzot'' (Hebrew: ניצוצות), or divine sparks, which were disseminated through the "Breaking of the Vessels" (in Hebrew: שבירת הכלים), brought about through cosmic processes at the beginning of Creation. The Hasidic follower strives to elevate the sparks in all those material things that aid one's prayer, Torah study, religious commandments, and overall service of God. A related concept is the imperative to engage with the Divine through mundane acts, such as eating, sexual relations, and other day-to-day activities. Hasidism teaches that all actions can be utilized for the service of God when fulfilled with such intent. Eating can be elevated through reciting the proper blessings before and after, while maintaining the act's intent as that of keeping the body healthy for the continued service of God. Sexual relations can be elevated by abstaining from excessive pursuits of sexual pleasures, while maintaining focus on its core purposes in Jewish thought: procreation, as well as the independent purpose of deepening the love and bond between husband and wife, two positive commandments. Business transactions too, when conducted within the parameters of Jewish law and for the sake of monetary gain that will then be used for fulfilling commandments, serve a righteous purpose. Scholars refer to this concept as Hasidic pantheism.((citation needed|date=October 2017))
* '''''Simcha''''' (Hebrew: שִׂמְחָה - "joy") – Joy is considered an essential element of the Hasidic way of life. In the early stages of the Hasidic movement, before the name "Hasidim" was coined, one of the names used to refer to the followers of the new movement was ''di Freyliche'' (((lang-yi|די פרייליכע))), “the Happy”.<ref name=majesky1>Majesky, Shloma. [http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/88576/jewish/Chapter-1-Understanding-The-Core-of-Joy.htm "Understanding, The Core of Joy."]  ''The Chassidic Approach to Joy''. Sichos in English. Brooklyn: New York. Accessed November 11, 2014.</ref> [[Aharon of Karlin (I)]], one of the early Hasidic masters, reportedly said, "There is no mitzvah to be joyous, but joy can bring on the greatest mitzvot." It is also true, he said, that "it is not a sin to be sad, but sadness can bring on the greatest sins."<ref name=happyyankel>Yanklowitz, Shmuly.  [http://www.jewishjournal.com/bloggish/item/judaisms_value_of_happiness_living_with_gratitude_and_idealism_20120309 "Judaism's value of happiness living with gratitude and idealism."] Bloggish. ''The Jewish Journal''. March 9, 2012.</ref> Hasidism emphasizes joy as a precondition to elevated spiritual awareness, and teaches the avoidance of melancholy at all costs. For the same reason, Hasidism shunned the earlier practices of [[Jewish asceticism|asceticism]] known to Kabbalists and Ethical followers, as having the potential to induce downheartedness and a weaker spirit for God's service. Nonetheless, the Hasidic masters themselves would often privately follow ascetic practices, as they could adopt such conduct without fear that it would damage their Jewish observance. This was not intended as an example for the followers.((citation needed|date=October 2017)) (See also: [[Happiness in Judaism]])
* '''''Hiskashrus''''' (Hebrew: התקשרות לצדיקים - "bonding to the righteous ones") – Hasidism teaches that while not all are able to attain the highest levels of elevated spirituality, the masses can attach themselves to the ''[[Tzadik]]'', or truly righteous one, whereby even those of lesser achievement will reap the same spiritual and material benefits. By being in the Tzadik's presence, one could achieve dveikut through that of the Tzadik. The Tzadik also serves as the intercessor between those attached to him and God, and acts as the channel through which Divine bounty is passed. To the early [[Misnagdim]] (opponents of Hasidism), its distinctive doctrine of the Tzadik appeared to place an intermediary before Judaism's direct connection with God. They saw the Hasidic enthusiasm of telling semi-prophetic or miraculous stories of its leaders as excessive. In Hasidic thought, based on earlier [[Kabbalistic]] ideas of collective souls, the Tzadik is a general soul in which the followers are included. The Tzadik is described as an "intermediary who connects" with God, rather than the heretical notion of an "intermediary who separates". To the followers, the Tzadik is not an object of prayer, as he attains his level only by being completely ''bittul'' (nullified) to God. The Hasidic followers have the custom of handing ''pidyon'' requests for blessing to the Tzadik, or visiting the [[Ohel (grave)|Ohel]] graves of earlier leaders. The radical statements of the power of the Tzadik, as the channel of Divine blessing in this world through which God works, are based on a long heritage of [[Kabbalistic]], [[Talmudic]] and [[Midrash]]ic sources. The beloved and holy status of the Tzaddik in Hasidism elevated storytelling about the Masters into a form of ''devekut''.((citation needed|date=October 2017))

== Writings ==
((also|Hasidic Judaism#Literature|Rabbinic literature#Hasidic thought))

=== Parables ===
Hasidism often uses parables to reflect on mystical teachings. For example, the well-known parable of the "Prince and the Imaginary Walls" reflects a pantheistic or acosmistic theology and explores the relationship between the individual Jew and God.<ref name=polen15>Polen, Nehemia. "Hasidic Derashah as Illuminated Exegesis." ''The Value of the Particular: Lessons from Judaism and the Modern Jewish Experience: Festschrift for Steven T. Katz on the Occasion of his Seventieth Birthday''. BRILL. 2015. Pages 55-70.</ref>

((Quote|How, then, can those who are distant from Torah be aroused from their spiritual slumber? For such people, the Torah must be clothed and concealed in stories. They must hear narratives of ancient times, which go beyond simple kindness and are "great in kindness".<ref>''[[Likutey Moharan]]'' I, 60: 6''</ref>|Nachman of Breslov))

[[Nachman of Breslov]] authored a number of well-known tales, or expanded parables. Nachman believed he drew these "tales of the ancient wisdom" from a higher wisdom, tapping into a deep archetypal imagination.<ref>Kamenetz, Rodger. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=X-KOztGalCMC&pg=PA167 Burnt Books: Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav and Franz Kafka]'' Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group. 2010. Page 167.</ref> One such tale is [[The Rooster Prince]], a story of a prince who goes insane and believes that he is a rooster.

=== Early Hasidic works ===
[[File:Toldos Yaakov Yosef.png|thumb|200px|Title page of ''Toldot Yaakov Yosef'', 1867 edition. This work was the first published Hasidic text.]]

While the Baal Shem Tov did not leave teachings in writing, many teachings, sayings and parables are recorded by his students, most notably in the ''Toldot Yaakov Yosef'' by Jacob Josef of Polonne, a disciple of the Baal Shem Tov. The teachings of the Baal Shem Tov's successor, Dov Ber the Maggid of Mezritch, were compiled in the work ''Maggid D'varav L'yaakov'' (compiled by Shlomo Lusk). Many of the Hasidic leaders of the third generation of Hasidism (students of Dov Ber) authored their own works, which are the basis for new Hasidic schools of thought. Among them are  [[Elimelech of Lizhensk]], who further developed the Hasidic doctrine of the [[Tzaddik]] (mystical leader) that gave rise to many Polish Hasidic dynasties, also notable are the teachings of his brother [[Meshulam Zushya of Anipoli|Zushya of Anipoli]] and [[Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev]], known in Hasidic legend as the defender of the people before the Heavenly Court. [[Shneur Zalman of Liadi]] initiated the [[Chabad]] school of intellectual Hasidism. Others include [[Nachman of Breslav]] known for his use of imaginative parables, and [[Menachem Mendel of Kotzk]].

[[File:Maggid Devarav L'Yaakov.jpg|thumb|200px|Title page of ''Maggid Devarav L'Yaakov'' (Koretz, 1781 edition).]]
Among the major tracts compiled by early Hasidic masters are:
* ''Toldot Yaakov Yosef'', by [[Jacob Joseph of Polnoye]] (1780)
* ''Magid Devarav L'Yaakov'', by [[Dovber of Mezritch]], compiled by Shlomo of Lutzk (1781)
* ''Noam Elimelech'', by [[Elimelech of Lizhensk]] (1788)
* ''[[Tanya (Judaism)|Likutei Amarim (Tanya)]]'', by [[Shneur Zalman of Liadi]] (1796)
* ''Kedushas Levi'', by [[Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev]] (1798)
* ''Meor Einayim'', by [[Menachem Nachum Twerski of Chernobyl]] (1798)
* ''Likutei Moharan'', by [[Nachman of Breslov]] (1808)
* ''Siduro Shel Shabbos'', by [[Hayyim Tyrer]] (1813)
* ''Sippurei Ma'asiot'' by [[Nachman of Breslov]] (1816) - a book of parables reflecting mystical concepts

== In Jewish scholarship ==
The lengthy history of Hasidism, the numerous schools of thought therein, and particularly its use of the traditional medium of homiletic literature and sermons – comprising numerous references to earlier sources in the Pentateuch, Talmud and exegesis as a means to grounding oneself in tradition – as the almost sole channel to convey its ideas, all made the isolation of a common doctrine highly challenging to researchers. As noted by [[Joseph Dan]], "''every attempt to present such a body of ideas has failed.''" Even motifs presented by scholars in the past as unique Hasidic contributions were later revealed to have been common among both their predecessors and opponents, all the more so regarding many other traits that are widely extant – these play, Dan added, "''a prominent role in modern non-Hasidic and anti-Hasidic writings as well''".<ref name="Dan2">Joseph Dan, ''[http://www.yivoencyclopedia.org/article.aspx/Hasidism/Teachings_and_Literature Hasidism: Teachings and Literature]'', [[The YIVO Encyclopedia of Jews in Eastern Europe]]</ref> The difficulty of separating the movement's philosophy from that of its main inspiration, [[Lurianic Kabbalah]], and determining what was novel and what merely a recapitulation, also baffled historians. Some, like [[Louis Jacobs]], regarded the early masters as innovators who introduced "much that was new if only by emphasis";<ref>Louis Jacobs, ''Basic Ideas of Hasidism'', in: ''Hasidism'', [[Encyclopedia Judaica]], 2007. Volume 8, p. 408.</ref> others, primarily [[Mendel Piekarz]], argued to the contrary that but a little was not found in much earlier tracts, and the movement's originality lay in the manner it popularized these teachings to become the ideology of a well-organized sect.<ref>Mendel Piekarz, ''Ben ideʼologyah li-metsiʼut'', [[Bialik Institute]] (1994), ((OCLC|31267606)). pp. 151-152; Dynner, ''Men of Silk'', p. 27.</ref>

Among the traits particularly associated with Hasidism in common understanding which are in fact widespread, is the importance of joy and happiness at worship and religious life – though the sect undoubtedly stressed this aspect and still possesses a clear populist bent. Another example is the value placed on the simple, ordinary Jew in supposed contradiction with the favouring of elitist scholars beforehand; such ideas are common in ethical works far preceding Hasidism. The movement did for a few decades challenge the rabbinic establishment, which relied on the authority of [[Torah]] acumen, but affirmed the centrality of study very soon. Concurrently, the image of its [[Misnagdim|Opponents]] as dreary intellectuals who lacked spiritual fervour and opposed mysticism is likewise unfounded. Neither did Hasidism, often portrayed as promoting healthy sensuality, unanimously reject the asceticism and self-mortification associated primarily with its rivals. Joseph Dan ascribed all these perceptions to so-called "[[Neo-Hasidic]]" writers and thinkers, like [[Martin Buber]]. In their attempt to build new models of spirituality for modern Jews, they propagated a romantic, sentimental image of the movement. The "Neo-Hasidic" interpretation influenced even scholarly discourse to a great degree, but had a tenuous connection with reality.<ref name="Dan2"/>

A further complication is the divide between what researchers term "early Hasidism", which ended in the early 1800s, and established Hasidism since then onwards. While the former was a highly dynamic religious revival movement, the latter phase is characterized by consolidation into sects with hereditary leadership. The mystical teachings formulated during the first era were by no means repudiated, and many Hasidic masters remained consummate spiritualists and original thinkers; as noted by [[Benjamin Brown (scholar)|Benjamin Brown]], Buber's once commonly accepted view that the routinization constituted "decadence" was refuted by later studies, demonstrating that the movement remained very much innovative.<ref>See, for example, Benjamin Brown, [https://www.academia.edu/9612489/ Hasidism Without Romanticism: Mendel Piekarz's Path in the study of Hasidism]. pp. 455-456.</ref> Yet many aspects of early Hasidism were indeed de-emphasized in favour of more conventional religious expressions, and its radical concepts were largely neutralized. Some ''rebbe''s adopted a relatively rationalist bent, sidelining their explicit mystical, [[theurgical]] roles, and many others functioned almost solely as political leaders of large communities. As to their Hasidim, affiliation was less a matter of admiring a charismatic leader as in the early days, but rather birth into a family belonging to a specific "court".<ref>Assaf, ''Regal Way'', pp. 49-55, 63-67; Dynner, ''Men of Silk'', pp. 117-121.</ref>

== Impact ==
Hasidic tradition and thought has gained admirers from outside its immediate following, and outside [[Orthodox Judaism|Orthodox Jewish]] belief, for its charismatic inspiration and kabbalistic insights.<ref name=freeman-chassidut/><ref name=JE-hassidism>((cite encyclopedia|title=?ASIDIM - ?ASIDISM|url=http://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/7317-hasidim-hasidism|encyclopedia=The unedited full-text of the 1906 Jewish Encyclopedia|publisher=JewishEncyclopedia.com|access-date=9 September 2013))</ref>

In the 20th century, [[Neo-Hasidism]] renewed interest in Hasidism and Kaballah, where its reach extends beyond Orthodox Jews.

Jewish existentialist philosopher [[Martin Buber]] spent five years in isolation studying Hasidic texts, having a profound impact on his later writing. Buber later brought Hasidism to the western world through his works on Hasidic tales.<ref name=buber1/>

The thought of [[Abraham Isaac Kook]], poetic mystic, theologian and figurehead of [[Religious Zionism]], drew from both Hasidic thought and Lithuanian Talmudism. [[Gershom Scholem]] saw him as a classic inspired mystic of the 20th century. Kook's mystical concern for unity between false dichotomies of [[Aggada]] and [[Halakha]], sacred and secular, reflects Hasidic Divine Immanence in all, and the union of polarities in [[Chabad thought]].

The influential thought of [[Abraham Joshua Heschel]], scion of Polish Hasidic dynasties and a major traditionalist theologian in 20th century modern [[Jewish existentialism]], drew from Hasidism. His writings, including studies of Hasidic masters, and [[Neo-Hasidism]], saw Hasidism as the classic expression of [[Aggada|Aggadic]] tradition.<ref>''The Earth Is the Lord's: The Inner World of the Jew in Eastern Europe'', Abraham Joshua Heschel, Jewish Lights 1995</ref> Heschel held the Aggadah's theology, poetic exegesis and spirituality to be central to the meaning and history of Judaism.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023856/http://www.yctorah.org/component/option,com_docman/task,doc_view/gid,312 Abraham Joshua Heschel's view of Rabbinic Judaism as aggadah and mystical experience]</ref>

In literature, Hasidic spirituality influenced among others [[Elie Wiesel]], [[Shmuel Yosef Agnon]] and [[Yiddish literature|Yiddish writers]].

[[Rajneesh]] was also influenced by Hasidism, and helped to extend popular awareness of the philosophy.<ref>((cite book|last1=Rajneesh (Osho)|first1=Bhagwan Shree|title=The Art of Dying: Talks on Hasidism|date=1978|publisher=Rebel Publishing House|location=Mumbai|isbn=978-8172611088))</ref>

"One Hasidic Master related that he visited the court of [[Dov Ber of Mezeritch]] to 'see how he tied his shoelaces'."<ref>Cited in ''The Great Maggid'' by [[Jacob Immanuel Schochet]]. Kehot Publications</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Jewish meditation]]
* [[Asceticism in Judaism]]
* [[North-Africa]]
* [[Misnagdim]]
* [[Chabad philosophy]]
* [[Neo-Hasidism]]
* [[Nine and a Half Mystics]]

== Bibliography ==
* ''The Great Mission&nbsp;– The Life and Story of Rabbi [[Yisrael Baal Shem Tov]]'', Compiler Eli Friedman, Translator Elchonon Lesches, Kehot Publication Society.
* ''The Great Maggid&nbsp;– The Life and Teachings of Rabbi [[DovBer of Mezhirech]]'', [[Jacob Immanuel Schochet]], Kehot Publication Society.
* ''The Hasidic Tale'', Edited by Gedaliah Nigal, Translated by Edward Levin, The Littman Library of Jewish Civilization.
* ''The Hasidic Parable'', Aryeh Wineman, Jewish Publication Society.
* ''The Religious Thought of Hasidism: Text and Commentary'', Edited by [[Norman Lamm]], Michael Scharf Publication Trust of Yeshiva University.
* ''Wrapped in a Holy Flame: Teachings and Tales of The Hasidic Masters'', Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, Jossey-Bass.
* ''The Zaddik: The Doctrine of the Zaddik According to the Writings of Rabbi [[Yaakov Yosef of Polnoy]]'', Samuel H. Dresner, Jason Aronson publishers.
* ''Communicating the Infinite: The Emergence of the Habad School'', Naftali Loewenthal, University of Chicago Press.
* ''Tormented Master: The Life and Spiritual Quest of Rabbi [[Nahman of Bratslav]]'', Arthur Green, Jewish Lights Publishing.
* ''A Passion for Truth'', [[Abraham Joshua Heschel]], Jewish Lights Publishing.
* ''Lubavitcher Rabbi's Memoirs: Tracing the Origins of the Chasidic Movement&nbsp;– vol.1,2'', [[Yoseph Yitzchak Schneersohn]], Translated by Nissan Mindel, Kehot Publication Society.
* ''The Earth is the Lord's: The Inner World of the Jew in Eastern Europe'', [[Abraham Joshua Heschel]], Jewish Lights Publishing.
* ''Rabbi Nachman's Stories'', translated by [[Aryeh Kaplan]], [[Breslov Research Institute]] publication.
* ''On the Essence of Chassidus'', [[Menachem Mendel Schneerson]], translated by Y.Greenberg and S.S.Handelman, Kehot Publication Society.
* ''Hasidism Reappraised'', Edited by Ada Rapoport-Albert, Littman Library of Jewish Civilization.
* ''The Mystical Origins of Hasidism'', [[Rachel Elior]], Littman Library of Jewish Civilization.
* ''Hasidic Prayer'', [[Louis Jacobs]], Littman Library of Jewish Civilization.

== References ==
((Reflist|colwidth=30em))

== External links ==
* [http://www.nishmas.org/htmldocs/stories.html Chassidic Stories Archive]
* [http://www.chabad.org/search/keyword.asp?kid=2534 Hasidism] from [[Chabad.org]]
* [https://www.academia.edu/4688334/How_to_Read_Hasidic_Texts_A_Quick_Guide A Guide to Reading Hasidic Texts]

((DEFAULTSORT:Hasidic Philosophy))
[[Category:Hasidic thought| ]]
[[Category:Jewish theology]]
[[Category:Jewish mysticism]]

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