In To Be Chasidic: A Contemporary Guide, chasidism is explored and explained through its history, founding principles, ideology, and practices. Written by a fourth-generation chasid, this book reveals what the author calls "the inner beauty of Torah" to the modern reader. Chasidic interpretations of basic religious concepts are presented in detail, and Hebrew and Yiddish terminology is introduced and used throughout. The importance of Jewish observance is emphasized, with an explanation of its impact on one's spiritual and physical being. Difficult issues, including reward and punishment, and the coming of Moshiach (the messiah) are explored in a methodical, lucid fashion. Written for both the traditional and the non-observant Jew, this book serves as an excellent introduction to the theology of chasidism. Also discussed are important chasidic topics such as wearing a beard, men going to the mikveh, and niggunim, chasidic melodies. By presenting the importance and origin of fundamental chasidic practices in addition to the overall philosophical tenets, the author presents a rich picture of chasidic life, enabling the reader to draw informed conclusions about the movement as a whole. Rabbi Chaim Dalfin suggests that it is beneficial for anyone to study and understand chasidus as a vibrant and intensely active form of Jewish life, even if they do not want to consider themselves "full-fledged chasidim." Rabbi Dalfin writes that one may even choose only those chasidic practices that are individually meaningful for incorporation into one's current lifestyle. As Jews continue to search for creative and profound spiritual and religious expression, chasidism, as it is illuminated here, providesan authentic tradition of intense self-exploration and ultimately meaningful connection with God.
About the Author: Chaim Yaacov Dalfin received his rabbinical ordination from the Lubavitcher yeshivah in Brooklyn, New York. He received his bachelor of religious studies degree from the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown, New Jersey. Rabbi Dalfin is a professor of Jewish Mysticism and Chasidism at the West Coast Talmudic Seminary. He is the author of Your Better Self (1994), a book on the chasidic approach to self-improvement, and Demystifying the Mystical (1995), a primer to ease the beginner into the esoteric world of mysticism and Chasidism. He is the recording artist of the "Chasidic Melodies Series--Learn, Understand, and Sing." Rabbi Dalfin is a chasid of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe.