Conventional wisdom as well as academic
research has connected the concept of "Hasidism" with faith in
"special providence" (hashgacha pratit). The book "Not in
the Hands of Heaven: The Limits of Human Action in the Teachings of Early
Hassidic Masters" examines this relationship in the sermons of second and
third generation Hassidic masters: The Magid of Mezherech, Rabbi Jacob Joseph
of Polonoye and Rabbi Menahem Nahum of Chernobyl.
A careful reading of the sermons – oral texts - uncovers
the various audiences they were addressed to as well as the differing content
presented to dissimilar audiences. It becomes apparent that at times the orator
does not intend to describe his faith completely as much as to influence the
faith and consciousness of his listeners. The sermons reveal a complex approach
that continues that of the study halls of the Cabalists. According to this
approach Providence is exercised on each individual according to his personal
perfection and his dedication to the mission of unification of the upper and
lower worlds and that of drawing down the divine plenty into this world. The
Higher individual, the Tzadik, he who cleaves to God and acts selflessly is
accredited in the sermons with the power to direct the revealed world, as well
as the supernal worlds, mainly by the power of thought and speech. Out of their
belief in the power of Faith and Speech to act on reality, to shape and change
it, the Preachers educated the general public not to expect conscious
Cabalistic activities, but to believe that everything is an act of providence
thus turning reality over to the hands of Heaven while redemption of the Shechina,
"The Fear of Heaven", remains in the hands of man. Thus, "All is
in the Hands of Heaven, except the Fear of Heaven".