Pillar of Prayer

Overview

The spiritual involution that swept through eastern Europe in the 18th century continues to resonate for spiritual seekers today. The mystic Rabbi Israel ben Eliezer revealed profound teachings of great insight that continue delineating the foundations of Jewish contemplative spiritual practice. What remains to be rediscovered is a remarkable journey into the mystical foundation of Jewish prayer life, including: “The Union of Worlds, Souls and Divinity in Prayer, Study, and Speech;” “Constricted Consciousness and Actualizing Genuine Presence;” “Preaching Reproof and Prayer;” “Sincere Prayer—The Union of Speech and Thought;” “Teachings on Sincerity, Spontaneity, and Volition;” and “God’s Will and Knowledge.” Appealing beyond Hasidism alone, this modern translation of an important spiritual work is a must for those both newly- and well-acquainted with Jewish tradition.

Author Biography

Menachem Kallus is a rabbi and a translator who has contributed to Sh'ma: A Journal of Jewish Responsibility. Aubrey L. Glazer serves as senior rabbi at the Jewish Community Center of Harrison, New York. His research is part of a larger commitment to revitalizing Hebrew culture and civilization, and his publications include scholarly studies and annotated translations in Hebrew. He lives in New York City.