Hasid

/ˈhɑːsɪd/ noun

Definition

A member of a Jewish mystical movement that emphasizes direct personal connection to God through prayer, joy, and Torah study, originating in 18th-century Eastern Europe.

Etymology

From Hebrew 'hasid' meaning 'pious one' or 'devout one,' related to 'hesed' meaning 'loving-kindness.' The movement was founded by the Baal Shem Tov in the 1700s.

Kelly Says

Hasidic Judaism revolutionized Jewish spirituality by teaching that ordinary people could reach God through joy and prayer—not just elite scholars—which sparked one of the most vibrant religious movements of the last 300 years.

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