What’s Jewish about meditation? The Talmud describes the “First Hasidim” (who lived about two thousand years ago) as contemplatives who spent nine hours a day in prayer and meditation. The Torah, depicts our early ancestors as shepherds who were natural mystics, engaged in deep contemplation. The rich traditions of Kabbalah and the Hasidism of the Baal Shem Tov, are replete with practices for deeply engaging with our inner lives.

In the modern era thanks to pioneers such as Rabbis Zalman Schachter-Shalomi a”h and Aryeh Kaplan a”h, Jewish contemplative practices have entered the mainstream Jewish life. In this workshop we will explore some of the history and foundations of Jewish Meditation. We will have a chance to experience such practices as mindfulness, visualization, chanting, using a word, divine name or Torah verse as a touchstone for contemplation and how to fully engage our breath and body.

Join Reb Lev on Sunday November 2, from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm at Bonai Shalom in exploring the background and practices of contemplative Judaism. Sitting in silence, chanting, visualization, and contemplative prayer are some of the practices we will engage in. Bring a meditation cushion if you like. Suggested donation: $36.