Israel ben Eliezer (The Besht / Baal Shem Tov)

Living as a solitary contemplative in the Carpathian Mountains, Israel ben Eliezer immersed in nature and meditation before revealing himself in Medzhybizh as a spiritual healer and master ("Baal Shem Tov"). He challenged the despair following Cossack massacres by teaching constant joy and unitive prayer (Devekut).

He taught that even the most mundane physical actions can become sanctified when performed with sacred intention. His disciples spread Hasidism throughout Eastern Europe, revitalizing the spirit of millions of persecuted communities.