I first became intrigued by this fascinating group of Jews when I learned that Hasidics “emphasize the presence of God in all of one’s surroundings at all times.” There is much to be admired about this passionate group of Jewish mystics. Historically and even today Hasidim are known for the exuberance of their worship. This may includes ecstatic prayer, heartfelt emotion, boundless love, singing, dancing and inevitable joy as the soul is elevated in communion with God. In fact, when the Hasidic Movement began in the 1700s, these rebellious worshipers…
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Can We Learn From Christian Mysticism?
I do often find the books written by Christian Mysticism as mystifying! And so put them down quick; and I don’t think I’m the only one. For mysticism is often viewed as confused, irrational thinking. Sometimes I feel such writing intentionally obscures the meaning of something to make it more difficult to grasp and that’s when I long for the clear albeit doctrinaire statements of orthodox religion or for that matter the dogmas of materialistic science. At least they do not so obviously contain contradiction and paradox. Yet occasionally I…
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