Magic, mysticism, and Hasidism

By Gedalyah Nigal

Book Description

Professor Gedalyah Nigal presents a fascinating exploration into the often-overlooked supernatural dimensions of Jewish spiritual tradition. This scholarly yet accessible work delves into the mystical practices and extraordinary phenomena that have shaped Hasidic storytelling and folklore across generations.

Rather than dismissing magical elements as incompatible with religious devotion, Nigal demonstrates how these supernatural aspects actually emerge from the deepest levels of faith and spiritual dedication. The book examines remarkable figures known as baalei shem, who possessed knowledge of sacred names that enabled them to perform extraordinary acts. Readers will discover accounts of spiritual masters who could travel vast distances instantaneously, encounters with soul transmigration, and the complex world of spiritual possession and its remedies.

The narrative encompasses battles against dark forces, the protective power of sacred amulets, and even mystical journeys to paradise itself. Through careful documentation and analysis, Nigal reveals how demons, supernatural marriages, and otherworldly encounters form integral parts of Jewish mystical literature.

This groundbreaking study challenges common assumptions about the relationship between magic and monotheistic belief. For those seeking to understand the full spectrum of Jewish spiritual experience, this work illuminates how the most profound mystical achievements of Hasidic leaders stemmed directly from their exceptional piety and sanctity. The book serves both academic researchers and general readers interested in the deeper mysteries of Jewish tradition.