Living in the Presence

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A rabbi’s lifelong journey to uncover the source and inspiration of Hasidism unfolds through Burt Jacobson’s exploration of Israel Baal Shem Tov, the movement's founder. Inspired by Abraham Joshua Heschel at Jewish Theological Seminary, Jacobson dedicated himself to studying the Baal Shem, whom Heschel regarded as the greatest Jewish teacher of the last millennium. This work offers a comprehensive portrait of the Baal Shem Tov, revealing lesser-known aspects of his biography and revolutionary ideas. Jacobson, drawing on global wisdom traditions and his personal experiences, positions the Baal Shem alongside great spiritual leaders, showcasing his vision of ecstatic mystical encounters that reveal the transcendent unity of existence. This profound understanding inspired a deep love and compassion for all creation, particularly for those he encountered. Disciples reported that these teachings transformed their self-perception as manifestations of the Divine and reshaped their roles as spiritual leaders, laying the groundwork for Hasidism. Throughout the narrative, Jacobson evaluates insights from historians and scholars while sharing personal stories of his own struggles with Jewish identity and his spiritual connection to the Baal Shem. This work is both a scholarly achievement and a heartfelt tribute, destined to become a seminal text on the subject in English.