Customer Reviews

Breslov Haggadah: The Traditional Pesach Haggadah: With Commentary Based on the Teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov (English and Hebrew Edition)

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This Haggadah has the traditional Hebrew text and a modern, clear translation, along with plenty of great supplementary material from Breslov Hasidic sources. Like most Breslov materials, it focuses primarily on using the teachings of Rebbe Nachman for developing the personal relationship between human beings and their Creator.

Throughout this Haggadah, sections of the traditional text are related in the commentary to aspects of personal growth. For example, the "Four Sons"(or daughters) are explained as: (1) The Wise Self -- wisdom with measure; (2)The Wayward Self -- a reassuring rebuke; (3)The Simple Self-- a simple answer;and (4) The Sleeping Self-- an awakening of light. Similarly, the section on "Dayenu" has a discussion about how singing holy tunes can raise the soul up to God, while the discussion on Pharoah sees this character as "the Inverted Self" that drags us down. In short, the whole thrust of this Haggadah is toward inner spiritual liberation.

But make no mistake -- this is not a "new age" re-write of Judaism. This is Orthoodx Judaism at its very, very best. Rebbe Nachman of Breslov was a Hasidic master, and, when asked by his disciples what "special things" they should do as Breslover Hasidim, he replied, "Whatever is in the Shulchan Arukh (code of Jewish Law)." In other words, be halachically-observant Jews. So, when it comes to the rituals, this Haggadah upholds the traditional form of the ceremony.

But Rebbe Nachman was also aware that Jewish law commands us to "love God with all you heart and with all your soul and with all your might," and it is this aspect which is often neglected in daily life. So, this Haggadah goes beyond the "Letter of the Law" to draw upon the deep spirtuality of Rebbe Nachman's about liberation from fear, depression, greed, confusion, etc. in order to remain focused on God. The result is a very inspiring book for celebrating Passover -- And a great resource year-round, too!