Hashkafah and Chassidut
Encounter foundational teachings on emunah, bitachon, middot, Divine providence, and purpose. Integrate philosophical clarity with spiritual depth.
Program Overview
This survey course brings together selections from Tanya, Hechaltzu, Derech Mitzvosecha, Michtav Me’Eliyahu, Shaar HaBitachon (Chovot HaLevavot), and selections from Rabbeinu Bachya. The goal is to expose students to diverse streams of Jewish thought while identifying their shared principles.
Students explore themes of faith, trust in G-D, free will, character refinement, Divine providence, inner struggle, humility, and responsibility. The course emphasizes how classical mussar and Chassidut complement one another in shaping a coherent Jewish worldview.
Through guided reading and structured discussion, students compare approaches, identify conceptual overlaps, and articulate their own integrated understanding of Torah hashkafah.
Core Areas of Study
Emunah and Bitachon
Study of Shaar HaBitachon and Chassidic elaborations on trust and Divine guidance.
Inner Development
Selections from Michtav Me’Eliyahu and Tanya addressing bechirah and character growth.
Unity and Purpose
Hechaltzu and Derech Mitzvosecha on collective identity and cosmic mission.
Classical Foundations
Selections from Rabbeinu Bachya and related works on ethical and spiritual responsibility.
Skills Developed
- Comparative worldview analysis
- Conceptual clarity in emunah and bitachon
- Integration of Mussar and Chassidut
- Personal reflection and ethical application
- Clear articulation of Torah philosophy
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Survey of Hashkafah and Chassidut course will:
✔ Understand major foundations of Jewish belief
✔ Articulate key Chassidic and Mussar principles
✔ Integrate hashkafah into personal and professional life
✔ Demonstrate ethical and spiritual awareness
✔ Possess a structured and coherent Torah worldview