Mysticism

Summary

The chapter discusses Jewish mysticism, focusing on Rabbi Yitshak Horowitz, a key figure in Habad mystical theology. He is portrayed as an ascetic who believed that drinking alcohol could enhance spiritual longing. Additionally, it describes the 'kidush levanah,' a traditional ceremony performed at the beginning of each month, where a benediction is recited to praise God for creating the moon and other celestial bodies.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This chapter highlights Jewish mysticism. It talks about Rabbi Yitshak Horowitz, also known as Reb Yitshak Masmid who is a leading exponent of mystical theology in the Habad vein. Reb Yitshak Masmid seemed to be a typical ascetic whose head reached to the heavens. He ate very little but drank heavily in the belief that alcohol could act as a stimulant to the deeper longings of the soul. The chapter also describes the traditional ceremony of the benediction over the moon (kidush levanah), which is considered to be a mystical rite. In this ceremony, carried out preferably in the open, at the beginning of the month, a benediction is recited in which God is praised for the creation of the moon and the other heavenly bodies.