R’ Nachman of Breslev was a mystery during his life as much
as after his death. The man who didn’t make it past 40 has intrigued all sorts
for 2 centuries now. Ranging all the way from Me’ah She’arim Ultra-Orthodox
to academics and Californian new-age types – R’ Nachman is a celebrated figure
as original and relevant today as he ever has been.
What makes this great Chassidic master so unique and extraordinary?
What is it that possesses such a diverse crowd?
Contrary to many mystics of his era, R’ Nachman did not
center the foundation of his movement upon miracles and supernatural
experiences. History has proven those to be inefficient as far as maintaining
long-term progress and commitment[1].
The founder of Breslever Chassidism preferred to focus on personal advice that
would guide those who open their hearts. If you listen closely you might hear a
soft voice from the depth of the endless Ukrainian forests that urges: “kids –
try this at home!”
Take for example his teachings on hitbodedut, a
subject upon which he put much emphasis. Hitbodedut is the act of
turning to God with one’s personal words[2].
The inspiration and awesomeness that is planted in the soul, heart and mind of
one who practices this spiritual exercise may very well resonate with a person
due to the fact that it is not imposed externally rather grows from within.
Imagine R’ Nachman at his headquarters in his blue jeans,
black turtle neck and shtreimle appearing before the frenzied masses who are worn
down by anticipation. And then he finally gives it to them: It’s God’s phone number – and it’s toll free! Hitbodedut
is no less exciting than that, plus you don’t have to get in line early in the
morning to be one of the first to use it[3].
Sevice Coverage
My Momma always says that even though you can call the
Almighty from all over, in Israel it’s a local call. I guess now that we’ve established
that it happens to be a toll free number I should update the idea: You can place your call
from anywhere, but chances are you’ll be more motivated to actually use the
phone in the Holy Land[4].
Well, there’s also the issue of the quality of the line and the number of
dropped calls…
[1] See
for instance Exodus 32 where we read about the sin of the golden calf which
took place shortly after incomparable miracles and Godly revelations.
[2] See
Likutei Moharan B:25
[3]
Although the truth is that spiritual data seem to flow faster during that
time.
[4] See
Likutei Moharan A:155 and notice the connection between the conclusion and the
opening statement.
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