The Kabbalah of Baal Shem Tov
The Kabbalah of Baal Shem Tov
Israel ben Eliezer, famously known as the Baal Shem Tov, was a significant figure in Jewish mysticism and healing during the 18th century, credited as the architect of Hasidic Judaism. The appellation "Besht," an acronym for Baal Shem Tov, translates to "Master of the Good Name," symbolizing a revered individual who harnesses the clandestine power of God's name to perform sacred acts.
The little biographical information about the Besht originates from oral traditions passed down by his students, including Jacob Joseph of Polonne and others. Additionally, legendary tales about his life and behavior have been compiled in Shivḥei ha-Besht (In Praise of the Ba'al Shem Tov; Kapust and Berdychiv, 1814–15).
A central tenet in the Baal Shem Tov's teaching is the direct connection with the divine, "dvekut", which is infused in every human activity and every waking hour. Prayer is of supreme importance, along with the mystical significance of Hebrew letters and words. His innovation lies in "encouraging worshippers to follow their distracting thoughts to their roots in the divine, thus emphasizing the interconnectedness of daily life with the sacred and promoting mindfulness in all endeavors." This approach fosters a more profound understanding of spirituality and the practical application of mystical principles.
According to Hasidic legend, the Baal Shem Tov would have vivid and profound visions in which the revered prophet Achiya Hashiloni would spiritually manifest before him. In the year 1716, the Baal Shem Tov entered into matrimony, but the joy was short-lived as his beloved wife passed away, leading him to embark on an itinerant journey across Eastern Galicia. Following a prolonged period of assisting and supporting diverse small communities in West Ukraine, he eventually found settlement as a devoted melamed in Tluste.
The Besht, also known as Israel ben Eliezer, a prominent figure in Jewish mysticism, was first initiated into the teachings of Kabbalah by Rabbi Adam Baal Shem of Ropczyce. It’s worth noting that Rabbi Adam Baal Shem was a devoted follower of Rabbi Yoel Baal Shem (I) of Zamość, who in turn succeeded the esteemed Rabbi Eliyahu Baal Shem of Worms, thus establishing a significant lineage of mystical knowledge.
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The Kabbalah of Baal Shem Tov was a profound and encyclopedic compendium encompassing a vast array of practical kabbalistic knowledge. It delved into remedies, segulot, protections, amulets, hashbaot, and goralot, presenting an extensive catalogue of thousands of alphabetical entries. This unparalleled work contained unique information not found in any other source, complemented by numerous diagrams and illustrations, rendering it an invaluable resource for those seeking esoteric wisdom.
It is widely regarded as the most vital manuscript in existence pertaining to remedies, segulot, and practical Kabbalah from Ashkenazic countries. The breadth and quality of its content surpass all other manuscript compendiums and printed works on these subjects. This exceptional manuscript contains rare material not found in any other source, shedding light on the medical knowledge, segulot, amulet texts, incantations, and hashbaot used by the Baalei Shem during the time of the Baal Shem Tov. Moreover, its extraordinary significance lies in its early references to the Baal Shem Tov and in its explicit documentation of the kabbalistic secrets passed down from R. Adam Baal Shem to the Baal Shem Tov – a revelation previously absent from scholarly literature.
The main part of the manuscript – leaves 1-240 – was meticulously penned by a skilled scribe, who painstakingly assembled thousands of prescriptions and texts from diverse origins, organizing them alphabetically into chapters. The elegant Ashkenazic script is adorned with numerous precisely executed and striking diagrams and illustrations. Subsequent additions were contributed by various scribes in different sections of the manuscript and within the remaining blank leaves. Later additions were also integrated into the bound manuscript. It is clear that the manuscript served numerous generations of folk healers and Baalei Shem, being passed down for practical application. Encompassing an extensive array of subjects, the manuscript includes texts of amulets, incantations for protection of the home, against thieves, fire, and demons, as well as for journeys, enemies, and more. Furthermore, it contains remedies for various illnesses, instructions for revealing concealed matters and future events, annulling sorcery and the evil eye, and much more. Notably, the manuscript provides rare, meticulous guidance on the creation of a Golem, accompanied by a cautionary note emphasizing its use only in cases of great necessity. Throughout the text, the writer frequently emphasizes the efficacy of the practices with the phrase "tried-and-true."
The manuscript is a treasure trove of rare and remarkable kabbalistic illustrations, painstakingly crafted with intricate detail and unwavering accuracy. Within its pages, one can find expansive amulet depictions, some spanning entire pages, each more awe-inspiring than the last. Of particular note is the captivating amulet found on page 185a, designed to ward off demons, featuring a striking human figure at its core. Equally striking is another notable amulet, sprawling across a double spread, intended to safeguard women from malevolent spirits and fanciful thoughts. Amongst the array of illustrations are celestial symbols like the Stars of David, hands, menorahs, and an assortment of enigmatic shapes. Moreover, the manuscript holds within its pages an enchanting angelic script with the opening declaration: “The Alphabet of the Divine Presence”. Not to be overlooked are the illustrations showcasing the celestial seals of the zodiac-controlling angels as well as those depicting formidable demons.
Sale of the book
Lot 161: Remarkable Manuscript of Rare Importance and Scope – Encyclopedia of Practical Kabbalah from the Times of the Baal Shem Tov – Eastern Europe, 18th Century
Est: $100,000 USD - $150,000 USD
Sold: $120,000 USD
Kedem Public Auction House Ltd
May 02, 2023
Jerusalem, Israel