Chassidic ecstasy in music

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Music holds a vital role in Judaism, as highlighted in the verse, «Hearken unto the song and the prayer which Your servant prays before You this day» (I Kings 8:28). The Gemarrah emphasizes that where there is song, there is prayer. In the Temple, music was integral to sacrificial services and later became embedded in prayers and Torah readings in synagogues. Chassidism particularly embraced music as a means of serving G-d, using it to foster awakening and joy while dispelling sadness, which was viewed as detrimental. Joy was seen as a pathway to higher spiritual levels, as illustrated by Rabbi Yehezkel of Kozmir, who interpreted the verse «with joy you shall go forth» (Isaiah 55) to signify overcoming difficulties through joy. This book offers a concise exploration of Chassidic courts and their musical traditions, detailing the significance of wordless melodies (Niggun), dance, Shabbat songs, and music's role in Kabbalah. It highlights the Rabbis who composed and performed music in synagogues and during traditional Tisch gatherings, where Chassidic followers would engage with their Rebbe. Additionally, Barzilai examines notable melodies—niggunim—some of which originated from non-Jewish sources but were adapted and embraced by Chassidic leaders, enriching the court's musical heritage.