Kol Elimelech

About the Book

What does a nineteenth century Chasidic rabbi have to teach us about relationships? 

Chasidic teachings have the power to awaken within us an awareness that we are constantly surrounded by love and the possibility for relationship, even in difficult times. Over a century ago, Rabbi Elimelech Shapira explored the cosmic principles of Divine love which he found at the core of esoteric Kabbalistic ideas. Reb Elimelech taught and wrote about our role as partners in the unfolding of the universe, personalizing and making this knowledge accessible through everyday spiritual practice and meditation. Kol Elimelech: Chasidic Wisdom for our Time offers a unique, spiritual lens through which we can view the world to begin the process of healing ourselves, our relationships, and more.

Rabbi Shleffar has done a brilliant job of translating the rich yet complex teachings of this Chasidic Master, not only making them accessible to us, but also offering his own deeply insightful teachings, which he modestly refers to as “commentary”. Shleffar has created a spiritual work that will surely touch the heart of the reader. With the addition of a prayer for each teaching, Shleffar has effectively created a tool for study and contemplation that suggests a daily practice, a way of being in the world, for those who wish to explore the meaning of the most important relationships in their lives.

About the Author

Rabbi Paul Shleffar is a dedicated student and teacher of Jewish texts and spirituality. He is the Founder and Director of the Center for Contemporary Jewish Spirituality and guides students of all ages in their exploration of our tradition. Prior to his ordination, he served as a firefighter and medic in Northern California .

Rabbi Shleffar is committed to helping students at all levels find their way into, understand, and deepen their relationship with the Divine. His approach is both in support of individualized personal learning and growth as well as for the greater purpose of creating tikkun and healing in our world. While rooted in scholarship and tradition, Rabbi Shleffar’s approach is based on Chasidic principles of love and gratitude, a thread that is visible through all of his life’s work.