This paper analyzes of Hasidism, the Jewish “revivalist movement” of the 18th century; its major foes, the Mitnagdim; the role of Hasidic leader Baal Shem Tov; historic context of anti-establishment sects; personal and mystical elements.
Looking into Hasidism from a psychological, specifically psychoanalytical, point of view, it provides a good example of how the individual makes sense of his/her realities as a Hasid. Unlike other religions, Hasidism and its practices and traditions does not bring forth problems of self-deprivation in order to achieve the state of otherworldliness, since it already advocates for the individual’s establishment of being in sync with the material world. However, Hasidism is unique in that it tries to balance both the individual’s needs and community’s requirements in the practice of Hasidist religious experiences. writing service definition