Mussar is a 1,000-year-old Jewish spiritual practice focusing on the development of one’s character traits.

It began as a way to balance out Judaism’s emphasis on ritual and observance, to help people behave in the world in a way that reflects their beliefs. As Spanish Rabbi Bachya ibn Pakuda wrote in the year 1040, Mussar’s goal is that people’s insides should match their outsides.

Through Mussar we undertake a process of self-growth, and think and talk a lot about our own way of being in the world, yet our big picture focus is on how we relate to others, on how we can achieve holiness in our relationships. How can we be more grateful, more patient, less angry, more compassionate?

If this sounds intriguing to you, sample what Mussar is all about at an introductory “Taste of Mussar” to be offered Fall 2022. Then you will be welcome to join one of the monthly sessions, which are facilitated by Rabbi Sacks: Mondays at 8 pm on Zoom or Thursdays at 9:30 am at Bet Torah.