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Hasidic Judaism Essay

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Hasidic Judaism is a branch of Orthodox Judaism established in Eastern Europe during the 1800’s that put spirituality and a connection with God through mysticism at the forefront of its beliefs. In order to understand Hasidic Judaism, one must understand that Judaism is not only a religion; it is also a philosophy and a way of life for the Jewish people. One of the oldest monotheistic religions, Judaism has evolved over the years since the time of the founding fathers. Like any culture or religion, however, Jews have never been without conflict or disagreement amongst its people. Schisms amongst Jews over long periods of time have led to a branching out of sects and Jewish institutions. What led to the separation of denominations within …show more content…

Troubled with the increase in Cossack Pogroms and Jewish ethnic cleansings under Chmielnicki during the latter 17th century, Polish Jews were threatened with near extinction. Faced with hardships and often persecution, many Jews lost faith in their study of Rabbinic Judaism due to its strict religious confines and naturally gravitated toward mysticism in order to feel a closer relationship with God. Discontent with Rabbinic Judaism, many Jewish mystics arose under the titles of “Baal Shem” or “Masters of the Name of God.” However, unlike traditional Judaism, these mystics increasingly preached values based on Kabbalah, including miracle work and divine intervention . From these early mystic teachings arose Hasidic Judaism, brought into the spotlight by its leader Israel Ben Elizier, who sought to rid Judaism of strict punishment and reward in accordance to Halakha . As the figurehead and clear leader of the Hasidic movement, Ben Elizer became known as the Baal Shem Tov. With his reputation as a healer, the Baal Shem Tov was able to shape later Hasidic belief in divine leaders, or Rebbes, who served not only as religious leaders but also as communal leaders with charismatic qualities. Despite never writing down his own beliefs , the Baal Shem Tov’s ideas had a lasting effect on Judaism. Eliezer’s followers were able to spread his ideas after his death and caused a large scale Jewish spiritual movement. Focused on selflessness and

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