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Mile Chai Judaica |
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Mystical Dimension
Volume 1 - Mystical
Dimension
Volume 2 - Deep - Calling Unto Deep
Volume 3 - Chassidic Dimensions
Rabbi Jacob Immanuel Schochet
Jewish Mysticism has forever had a fascinating appeal. This
applies equally to the complex doctrines of the Kabbalah and
the more perspicuous homilies of Chassidism. The profound
teachings of the mystics are of great theological and
philosophical significance. Thus they have become the
subject of endless study and scholarly research, even as
they inspire and move the human spirit to ever greater
heights and insights into ultimate reality and the meaning
of life. |
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The mystical dimension of Judaism is the very soul of the
Torah. As such it succeeds to penetrate to the very core of man,
evoking a response from the innermost point of his being:
"deep calling unto deep," soul speaking to soul and igniting its
consciousness of the Divine. This is undoubtedly a major reason for
the popularity of Jewish mysticism. It accounts also for the demand
for authentic material to assist those unable to study original texts
because of linguistic difficulties or the complexity of ideas. The
three volumes of "The Mystical Dimension" help overcome these
barriers. Thus, the third volume, "Chassidic Dimensions", explains the
foundations and rationale of concepts identified with Chassidism: the
Chassidic emphasis on absolute and universal Ahavat Yisrael; the
Chassidic concept of the Rebbe-Tzadik as a central figure of cosmic
significance; the Chassidic emphasis on a joyful disposition; the
Chassidic response to the tension between emotive religious experience
and the categorical imperatives of Halachah; and an exposition of the
philosophy and rationale of Chabad, activism for religious revival
which has revolutionized Jewish religious life and consciousness
throughout the world. "The Mystical Dimension" draws consistently on
the original sources of the great masters of the Kabbalah and
Chassidim. It does not talk about them, but lets them speak for
themselves. Their teachings are not only quoted, but also traced or
compared to original sources in the writings of the Talmud, Midrashim,
Zohar, and the early authorities. All sources are cited, thus
carefully documenting the numerous ideas and concepts touched upon and
elucidated. No less important, all is presented in simple and lucid
language and style. These volumes, each enhanced by detailed indexes,
are an important contribution toward an understanding of the Jewish
mystical dimension. They are an informative and illuminating
introduction to the fascinating and inspiring world of Jewish
mysticism for the novice and layman, even as they provide significant
texts for scholarly study. |
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