Mitzvot as a Spiritual Practice: A Jewish Guidebook for the Soul

by Esther G. Chasin

The practice of mitzvot (sacred actions) has a special role to play in awakening and transforming the soul. This book uses the mystical teachings of Judaism and the rich, spiritual potential of mitzvot as techniques to help the reader become more self aware, confront unwanted personality characteristics, and replace them with positive qualities for greater personal harmony. Based on Esther Chasin's popular La'asot ('to do') courses on the same topic, this book suggests that by living with intense consciousness rather than by habit, one can identify undesirable traits that result in malaise and unsatisfying relationships, as well as desirable characteristics that lead to joy. Once inappropriate qualities are detected, they can be turned around so that negative effects are transformed into positive ones. Each chapter is structured according to the teaching in Pirke Avot (The Ethics of the Fathers) that knowledge is fulfilled through ma'aseh, action. Chasin adds hitbodedut (meditation) to this recipe, thereby developing a path to self-fulfillment that is both traditional and thoroughly modern, encompassing mind, body, and soul.

145 pages, Hardcover

First published February 28, 1997

Reviews

[Chava · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am always looking for books about developing good character traits. The title of this one intrigued me, but it was not what I expected. It is based on a series of classes given as part of a Jewish learning program, so it covers a variety of topics. The best and most relevant chapter was "Bear with Patience the Transgressions of Others," with "Conquer the Need to Be Right" a close second. The author related several mitzvot to broader topics - peah, leket and shich'chah, which those who are not farmers cannot actually do. But everyone can be kinder and think of others.

Overall an interesting and thoughtful read, and with the frequent mention of teshuvah, an appropriate one for Elul and Tishrei.

[Robert Cymbala · Rating 5 out of 5]

On my way to converting !