SKG Articles: Shavuot

"Once in a thousand years, a soul such as the Ba'al Shem Tov
("Master of the Good Name") descends into the world," said Rabbi
Aharon of Karlin abut Rabbi Yisrael Ba'al Shem Tov. This was the
impression left by the Ba'al Shem Tov upon those who followed
him. No one could meet him without falling under the spell of his
unique personality. His methods were novel; the anecdote, the
parable, the metaphor, and the aphorism played a great part,
appealing to the heart as well as the mind in a time when logic
and intellect were esteemed while emotions were all but ignored.
The kindest and most approachable of men, the Ba'al Shem Tov
won over the hears of the poor and humble. He communicated
on equal terms with the highest rabbis as well as with the most
ignorant cobbler or farmer.

Born in Poland in approximately 1700, the Ba'al Shem Tov inherited from his father a deep love of
nature and genuine concern for his fellow man. As a young boy, he applied himself to mystical
studies, particularly that of kabbalah. The writings of Rabbi Isaac Luria and Rabbi Chaim Vital
became his guides.

Kabbalah had become the jealously guarded province of the intellectual elite. This is what the
Ba'al Shem Tov wished to share with the masses. He believed that all the "Children of Isreal" were
entitled to enter the spiritual kingdom. The privilege of the few had to become the prerogative of
many. He spoke directly to the masses in a language that they understood.

The Ba'al Shem Tov believed that he had come into this world to show humanity how to live by
three precepts: love of G-d, love of Israel, and love of Torah. There are no divisions between the
sacred. G-d is everywhere, no place is without Him. He taught what may be called "practical piety."

Joy ws the keynote of the Ba'al Shem Tov's philosophy. A man must pour his very essence into
every word; every G-d-directed thought, song, and dance are potent aids to distract himself from
the influences that constantly assail him.

On the seventh day of Sivan (the second day of Shavuot), 1760, the Ba'al Shem Tov died in the
presence of his family and disciples. With joyful anticipation, he went to meet his Maker. "I do not
lament my fate. I know full well that I shall leave through one door and enter through another. 'Let
not the foot of pride overtake me.' " With this verse from Psalms, he was gathered to his forefathers.

[Click here] to read about the Ba'al Shem Tov's Passing. (Opens in new window)
[Click here] to read about the Ba'al Shem Tov's teaching on prayer (Opens in new window)
[Click here] to read about the Ba'al Shem Tov's and the Storyteller (Opens in new window)
[Click here] to read more about the Ba'al Shem Tov's(Opens in new window)