Chassidic Texts

The soul of Judaism

Works that probe the essence of life and reveal the soul of Judaism, from classic Chassidic discourses to essays, anthologies and aphorisms

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The Tanya The Classic Primary Text of Chassidic Thought Written by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812), the founder of Chabad. The Tanya compacts four millennia of Jewish wisdom to answer the great personal and existential questions of life. It has revolutionized the way we think about G‑d, the human soul, the world and our place in it.		Selections From Torah Or and Likkutei Torah: Festivals Classic Chassidic Discourses by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi From the teachings of Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi; adapted by Eli Touger Selected discourses from the founder of the Chabad Chasidic philosophy's great works: Torah Ohr and Likkutei Torah. This edition focuses on Rabbi Schneur Zalman`s insights on the festivals. It has been the custom for Chasidim to study the discourses in Torah Ohr and Likkutei Torah, affectionately known as the "Chasidic Parsha," weekly and at festival time.
Shaar Habitachon - Gate of Trust Rabbeinu Bachya ben Yosef ibn Paquda Gate of Trust takes us on a transformational journey towards genuine trust, guiding us to a state of tranquil reliance on the all-powerful and compassionate G-d. Studying this vital work shows us how to confront and even transform unpredictable and challenging events by exercising and implementing the messages of genuine unyielding trust in G-d.		Tzava'at Harivash The Testament of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov By Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov; translated and annotated by J. Immanuel Schochet One of the earliest Chassidic texts, Tzava'at Harivash, is actually a manual of Chassidic directives, insights and guidance for deveikut, communion with G-d, culled from the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and his successor, Rabbi Dovber of Mezritch.
Derech Mitzvosecha Ta'amei HaMitzvot כ"ק הרב מנחם מענדל שניאורסון (אדמו"ר הצמח צדק) A fundamental work of Chassidut. Features in-depth explanations of the reasons for the Mitzvot, according to Chabad-Chasidut.		Lessons in Derech Mitzvosecha A Mystical Perspective on the Commandments By Rabbi M. M. Shneersohn (Tzemach Tzedek); Translated by Eliyahu Touger Derech Mitzvotecha dives into reasons behind mitzvot such as tzitzit, tefillin, prayer, belief in G-d, loving a fellow Jew, starting a family and many others. Five generations later, the author's grandson and successor, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, has often advised those seeking to begin study of Chasidic philosophy to study this fundamental work.
Flames A Chanukah Discourse by Rabbi DovBer of Lubavitch Translated by Dr. Naftali Loewenthal "Flames" focuses on the multiple images of the lamp; the oil, the wick and the different hues of the flame, in order to express profound guidance in the divine service of every individual: Just as the oil fuses flame and wick, so does the performance of practical mitzvot keep the radiance of the soul kindled upon the body.		Maamar VeYadaata To Know G-d By Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson; Translated by Eliyahu Touger One of the classics in Chasidic literature, "Veyadaata" is renowned for its simple yet profound explanation of the oneness of G-d, while at the same time focusing on the challenges of day-to-day living, exploring ways in which one can receive the inner G-dly light that is invested in the physical world.
Lessons in Heichaltzu A Treatise On Ahavas Yisrael by Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn of Lubavitch A discourse by Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn of Lubavitch Although "Love your fellow as yourself" is, as Rabbi Akiva taught, the great underlying principle of the Torah, actually achieving this love is a profound challenge for most people. Human personality is instead, often given to baseless hatred. This discourse deals with the spiritual roots of such hatred, its practical consequences, and the remedies for it.		The Tree of Life - Kuntres Eitz HaChayim A classic chassidic treatise on the mystic core of spiritual vitality. By Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson; Translated by Eliyahu Touger Shortly after founding Yeshiva Tomchei Temimim, Rabbi Shalom DovBer delivered this discourse to help his students, past and present, nourish the spiritual fire within. From the mysteries of the first days in Eden, the Rebbe extrapolates a set of standards for a student's learning goals and schedule, personal conduct, prayer, and appearance.
The Ethical Will A Chassidic discourse -- Chanoch Lanaar By Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson; Translated by Eliezer Danzinger This remarkable document is, in great measure, a treatise on education and child-rearing.		The Bar Mitzvah Maamer Isa B'Midrash Tehillim By Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson; Translated by Eliyahu Touger The official maamar (discourse) recited first by the fifth Chabad Rebbe and since then by all Chabad boys on the occasion of their Bar Mitzvah, translated and annotated in an accessible format, with additional chapters on customs relating to a Bar Mitzvah
Chassidic Discourses (Two Volumes) A Collection of discourses by the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe A discourse by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson of Lubavitch; translated by Sholom B. Wineberg Written during the turbulent years of 1941-1945, many of the discourses focus on self sacrifice, repentance, and strengthening Judaism, often speaking of the lessons to be learned from the earth-shattering events of the time and their connection to the coming of Moshiach		Sefer HaSichos 5698 Talks delivered in 5698 (1937-1938) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Uri Kaploun
Sefer HaSichos 5700 Talks delivered in 5700 (1939-1940) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Uri Kaploun		Sefer HaSichos 5701 Talks delivered in 5701 (1940-1941) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Uri Kaploun
Sefer HaSichos 5702 Talks delivered in 5702 (1941-1942) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the writings & talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch		Sefer HaSichos 5703 Talks Delivered in 5703 (1942-1943) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, The Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Uri Kaploun
Sefer HaSichos 5704 Talks delivered in 5704 (1943-1944) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the writings & talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch		Sefer HaSichos 5705 Talks delivered in 5705 (1944-1945) by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe From the talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Uri Kaploun
Maamar Reishit Goyim Amalek An End To Evil A discourse by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch The first discourse delivered by the Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe after succeeding to the mantle of leadership in 1920. It was first heard in the midst of the bitter civil war that shook the cities of Russia in the aftermath of the 1917 Revolution and the First World War.		On the Study of Chasidus A Trilogy of Chasidic Essays From the writings of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch A trilogy of Chasidic essays by Rabbi Yosef Y. Shneersohn of Lubavitch including: Some Aspects of Chabad Chasidism, On The Teachings of Chasidus and On Learning Chasidus.
The Principles of Education and Guidance From the writings of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch; translated by Eliezer Danzinger Originally written as an educational guide for two venerable mashpi'im (spiritual mentors) in the original yeshivah in Lubavitch, this treatise by the sixth Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch has since serve as a classic definition and elucidation of what "education" truly is		To Love a Fellow Jew The Mitzvah of Ahavas Yisrael in Chassidic Thought By Nissan Dovid Dubov An adapted version of Kuntres Ahavas Yisrael, a collection of sayings and teachings about ahavas Yisrael first published in booklet form by Kehot Publications on the 15th of Elul 5736. Incorporated in this volume are related aphorisms, and the section on ahavas Yisrael printed in the encyclopedia of Chassidus, Sefer HaErchim Chabad.
Mastery Over Self A Three-Phase Process of Spiritual Growth: The maamarim entitled Ki Imcha HaSelichah and Ani Ledodi, 5709 by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn of Lubavitch A discourse by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson of Lubavitch; translated by Eli Touger and Sholom B. Wineberg The two Ma'amarim, Ki Imcha Ha'Slicha and Ani Le'Dodi of the year 5709 put forth a three-phase process of spiritual growth, based on the tenets of Chassidic thought and practice.		With Light and with Might Two Chassidic Discourses by Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn of Lubavitch From the teachings of Rabbi Sholom DovBer of Lubavitch Two Chassidic Discourses by Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn of Lubavitch Tanu Rabbanan: Ner Chanukah, 5643 and Kol HaYotzei LeMilchemes Beis David, 5661 With an Appendix by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn of Lubavitch זצוקללה"ה נבג"מ זי"ע
Defiance and Devotion Selected Chassidic Discourses Dating from the Arrest and Liberation of the Sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn נ"ע in 1927 A discourse by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson of Lubavitch; translated by Eli Touger		Likkutei Dibburim From the writings & talks of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak of Lubavitch
Lessons in Sefer HaMaamarim - Wedding Discourses The text of the chassidic discourses recited by Chabad grooms during the pre-chupah reception.		Basi L'Gani Defining our Purpose on Earth An English translation of the last Chassidic discourse written by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Shneersohn, Yud Shvat 1950, and the first Chassidic discourse delivered by Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, Yud Shvat 1951.
Hayom Yom Compiled by the Lubavitcher Rebbe; free translation by Yitschak Meir Kagan Hayom Yom: From Day To Day …"its every day is indeed a day." A treasure of aphorisms and customs for every day of the year.		Hayom Yom: Tackling Life's Tasks Daily Chassidic Teachings & Glimpses into the Spiritual Lifestyle of Chabad-Lubavitch Translated from the writings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson The Chassidic classic HaYom Yom in a new English translation. This daily companion taps into Chassidic wisdom to help tackle life's tasks in a meaningful way. The Chassidic insights of the book is a bridge that will connect the reader's daily tasks with spirituality.
Likkutei Sichot in English Browse English-language renderings of Likkutei Sichot Translated by Eliyahu Touger Likkutei Sichos (literally, "Collected Talks") contains both the scope and the core of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings, and is the most authoritative source text for the Rebbe's unique, original, and often revolutionary explanation of Judaism. 16 Comments		Selections from Likkutei Sichos Insights into the Weekly Parshah by the Lubavitcher Rebbe By The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson The Rebbe's Likkutei Sichot revolutionizes Torah study, Jewish life, and G-dly experience. Now, for the first time ever, a curated selection of the original Likkutei Sichos is available in English.
Led By G-d's Hand The Baal Shem Tov's conception of Hashgacha Pratis From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Nothing happens by chance; even a leaf blowing in the wind does so because G-d wills it to. This book presents several analytical treatises by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, on the Baal Shem Tov's conception of Hashgacha Pratis, Divine Providence.		Whispers Between Worlds A guide to praying at the gravesite of a Tzaddik - Kuntres HaHishtatchus Includes the classic Maamar explaining the significance of visiting the grave of a Tzaddik.
Anticipating the Redemption - Volume 1 Maamarim of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, Concerning the Era of Redemption From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Awakening the desire for the Redemption can only be accomplished through learning about it. The Rebbe details different aspects of the Redemption, the role of Moshiach, and how we can prepare ourselves for this new era.		Anticipating the Redemption - Volume 2 Maamarim of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, Concerning the Era of Redemption From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Awakening the desire for the Redemption can only be accomplished through learning about it. The Rebbe details different aspects of the Redemption, the role of Moshiach, and how we can prepare ourselves for this new era.
Seek Out the Welfare of Jerusalem From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Analytical studies by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson on the Rambam's rulings concerning the construction and the design of the Beis HaMikdosh		Crown Jewels Conceptual Frontiers of Chassidic Thought From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Selected from the Rebbe`s voluminous Likkutei Sichot, these "Crown Jewels" expound the most profound of Chassidic concepts, presented according to the Torah portions in which they originally appeared.
Timeless Patterns in Time From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson The Jewish year, with its holidays and fast days, is a cycle of recurring spiritual influences, with each year bringing a new dimension to the cycle. These essays highlight the spiritual message of the holidays, showing the connection between the historical significance of these days and their eternal relevance to Jewish life.		The Weekly Maamar A discourse by the Lubavitcher Rebbe; free translation by Eli Touger Discourses by the Lubavitcher Rebbe on the Book of Bereshit.
In Good Hands 100 Letters and Talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson on Bitachon: Trusting in G d From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson		Sichos in English From the writings and talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Translated excerpts of talks delivered by The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, at his periodic public addresses.
A Judgment of Truth and Mercy Baad Kodesh — by The Mitteler Rebbe, Rabbi Dovber By Rabbi DovBer Schneuri (“The Mitteler Rebbe”)		When Every Moment is Precious An in-depth Maamar of Chabad Thought: Lo Sih'yeh Meshakeilah, Shabbos Parshas Mishpatim, 5712 A discourse by the Lubavitcher Rebbe; free translation by Eli Touger
I Will Choose the King BeYom Ashtei-Asar Yom, 5731 — Delivered by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson 11 Nissan, 5731 (1971)		Along a Winding Path Vaydaber Elokim el Moshe, 5712 (1952)
Simchah: Breaking Through Barriers Margela bePumei deRava, 5746 (1986) — a maamar by The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson		I Came To My Garden, 5710 (Chapter 5) A Fresh Rendering of Chapter Five of the Classic Maamar, Basi L'Gani By Tzvi Freeman A fresh, very readable adaptation of chapter five of the classic maamar, Basi LeGani. 6 Comments
Maamer B’Etzem HaYom HaZeh From the Alter Rebbe's Torah Ohr By Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi The classic discourse from Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liad's Torah Ohr, that is customarily recited at a brit milah.		The Soul’s Cry Lehavin Inyan Tekias Shofar From a discourse of Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi; translation and commentary by Elisha Pearl From Siddur Im Dach, this discourse was given by the Alter Rebbe and transcribed by the Miteler Rebbe.
On the Essence of Chassidus עִנְיָנָהּ שֶׁל תּוֹרַת הַחֲסִידוּת By The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson This landmark discourse explores the contribution of Chasidus to a far deeper and expanded understanding of Torah. The Rebbe analyzes the relationship Chasidus has with Kabbalah, the various dimensions of the soul, the concept of Moshiach and the Divine attributes.		I Will Write It In Their Hearts Letters from the Rebbe From correspondence of the Lubavitcher Rebbe; translated by Eli Touger In the Rebbe's correspondence one can see his scholarship, the care he has for every individual, the communal projects which he pioneered, and many other dimensions of his leadership.
Humility & Happiness —How the ego conflicts with true joy Translated by Tzvi Freeman We may be somewhat surprised to discover that not only is there no conflict between the two, but in truth happiness and humility make a marvelous pair. 26 Comments		Guilt & Happiness —Let the ecstasy override all else From the teachings of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Lubavitch (The "Tzemach Tzedek") 1 Comment
Chassidic Discourses Rendered by Tzvi Freeman