The Maggid of Mezritch (The Great Maggid)
המגיד ממעזריטש | c. 1704–1772
Teacher: Baal Shem Tov
Students: Alter Rebbe
Biography
Rabbi Dov Ber of Mezeritch was the primary disciple and successor of the Baal Shem Tov, and the teacher of the Alter Rebbe (founder of Chabad). He systematized and deepened the Baal Shem Tov’s teachings, transforming them into a comprehensive intellectual-spiritual system.
Under his leadership, Hasidism spread throughout Eastern Europe. His disciples included many of the great Chassidic masters who founded major dynasties.
His teachings are collected primarily in Or HaTorah (Light of Torah), recorded by his disciples. He emphasized the concept of bittul (self-nullification) before God, and the deepening of kavana (intention) in prayer and Torah study.
The Alter Rebbe studied with the Maggid for 18 months, absorbing the foundational teachings that would become the basis of Chabad philosophy.
Works in This Library
Part of the Chabad Library Wiki