Overcoming Folly.

Overcoming Folly

Rabbi Shalom DovBer

Merkos Publications

291 Kingston Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11213

0826607438 $28.95

Rabbi Shalom DovBer of Lubavitch presents Overcoming Folly, a bilingual English/Hebrew treatise written in the style of traditional ethical Torah teachings. Overcoming Folly especially investigates the reality of material existence, and its obstacles to earning true spiritual understanding. Taking a Chasidic approach that emphasizes the mystical-spiritual aspects of the goals an individual should strive for, Overcoming Folly guides the reader in means to overcome stumbling blocks to enlightenment. A supplemental section of discourse summaries in the back of the book will prove useful to first-time readers. For example, the summary of Discourse Two reads, "Succumbing to sin caused by (a) strength of animal soul through constant indulgence of desire for the permissible, and (b) misconception that he will not be separated from G-d through it, and he shall have peace. True vitality is G-dliness and the 'realm of holiness.'" Grounded firmly in quotes and wisdom from Biblical, Talmudic, and Kabbalistic sources, Overcoming Folly lives up to its title in its instruction for not only avoiding worldly follies, but also committing and devoting oneself to Torah in a manner that is above reason, and thus embodies the positive side of non-rational behavior. Enthusiastically recommended for serious students and scholars, as well as for deeply faithful individuals committed to the Chasidic principles of striving for self-improvement.