Les récits hassidiques du Rabbi de Kotzk

The teachings of Rabbi Menahem Mendel de Kotzk (1787-1859) break with original Hasidism which proposed the joy of one’s voice as the most direct way of inviting God into our lives. Austere and demanding, it emphasises the importance of the Law and places introspection at the heart of spiritual practice. Unlike certain Hasidic guides, Rabbi Menahem Mendel refuses to be labelled as a master. Rejecting any compromise of his principles that might distance him from God, he lives a life of absolute deprivation, extolling humility, purity of intention and absolute faith. For him, not studying is of greater worth than deriving pride from study. Rabbi de Kotzk left no written record. These tales have been brought together to be published 50 years after his death. They are anecdotes illustrating the spiritual elevation and transcendence of the self that come to define this tireless seeker of authenticity and truth. They are followed by commentaries offering the reader a deeper appreciation of their spiritual teachings.

Presentation: New perspectives within Hasidism - Portrait of a dissident Hasidic master - After Kotzk - The literary evocations of the Hasidism of Kotzk - The Hasidic tales of Kotzk Cry Tomé and bring him back to life! - Adulterated honey - In the forest - The “Jewish Saint” of Pshiskhe - Why do we drink eau de vie? - After Havdalah - Who will be the Messiah? - You shall not loan your money with interest - The Hebrew alphabet - The sandman - Ayzik, the son of Rèb Yèkèlè - Because of one minute - On a winter’s night - The old klezmer musician – The dawn of Redemption - The Shabbat Shirah - Closing thoughts - Sources containing legends about Kotzkher Rèbbè