Pathways to the Heart: Opening the Teachings of the House of Izhbitz

by Reuven Boshnack

Step into the Soulful World of Izhbitz Chasidut

Pathways to the Heart explores the deep and transformative teachings of the Izhbitzer Rebbes, who are celebrated for their ability to illuminate the profound spiritual dimensions of the Torah. This book serves as both a gateway to the wisdom of Izhbitz Chasidut and a practical guide for incorporating its teachings into everyday life.

What Makes the Izhbitz Approach Unique?

The Izhbitzer Rebbes emphasized:

The Power of Free Will and Acceptance: While human beings are gifted with choice, all actions are guided by divine will. The challenge is learning to accept one's circumstances as divinely intended while continuing to grow and strive.The Spiritual Depth of Struggle: Life's challenges are not obstacles but opportunities for spiritual refinement. The Izhbitzer teachings highlight how every moment-especially the difficult ones-has inherent purpose and can bring a person closer to God.The Relevance of Torah to Each Soul: Torah is presented not just as a source of laws but as a personal message to each individual, speaking to their unique soul and life path.Practical Spirituality: The Izhbitzer tradition takes lofty spiritual ideals and connects them to the realities of everyday life, guiding individuals toward a deeper relationship with God through their personal experiences.Highlights include: Parshat Bereishit: The Izhbitzer Rebbes teach that God granted humanity the ability to create and perpetuate good in the world. Unlike animals, which live in the moment, humans can affect lasting spiritual change. This parsha reminds us that our choices echo beyond the present, calling us to recognize the profound impact of our actions.Parshat Beshalach: At the Red Sea, the Israelites are trapped between the Egyptian army and the waters. The Izhbitzer Rebbes highlight Nachshon's leap of faith into the sea as a model for overcoming fear and doubt. The takeaway: courage rooted in faith enables divine intervention in our lives.Parshat Acharei Mot: This parsha discusses the Yom Kippur service, emphasizing the power of atonement and starting anew. The Izhbitzer tradition views repentance as a way to align our deepest selves with divine will. By confronting our flaws and striving for renewal, we elevate both ourselves and the world.Parshat Korach: Korach's rebellion illustrates the dangers of ego and the misuse of power. Leadership must be rooted in humility and a desire to serve. The lesson: spiritual greatness comes from aligning personal ambition with a higher purpose, rather than seeking self-glory.Parshat Re'eh: Moses presents the people with a choice between blessing and curse, urging them to follow God's commandments. This is a call to mindfulness, emphasizing that every decision shapes our spiritual destiny.
About the Author:

Rabbi Reuven Boshnack is a renowned educator and spiritual guide who serves as a leader in the OU's Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC) at Brooklyn College. Known for his ability to distill complex Chasidic teachings into relatable and inspiring lessons, Rabbi Boshnack brings the warmth and wisdom of the Izhbitz tradition to life. With decades of study and teaching experience, he offers readers a rare opportunity to engage with these profound teachings in an accessible and practical way.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1947857363
• ISBN13: 9781947857360
• Release Date: February 2020
• Publisher: Kodesh Press
• Length: 324 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"