The Kabbalah of Envy: Transforming Hatred, Anger, and Other Negative Emotions

by Rabbi Nilton Bonder, Julia Michaels (Translator)

Negative emotions have much to teach us about ourselves and our relationships with others and the world at large. Rabbi Bonder draws on the wisdom of the Talmud, Hasidic tales, and Jewish mystical lore in presenting insights into the effects of envy, jealousy, hatred, and anger. He shows that whether we are on the giving or the receiving end of these unpleasant emotions, we can learn to transform them and live peacefully in the spirit of the biblical commandment "Love thy neighbor as thyself." Among the topics discussed The consequences of malicious gossip, slander, and insults Cultivating humility as the middle way between pride and lack of self-esteem Learning to rejoice in the happiness and success of others Knowing when it's better not to be nice The proper way to correct or criticize others Living with ill-will and avoiding fights Forgiveness and reconciliation Turning your enemy into your best friend

Genres: Judaism, Jewish

216 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[AL · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a blessing in and of itself, written with clarity and insight that bespeak of a well-studied mind with a spiritually minded soul. Despite my staggered reading, this book is worth deeper study and reflection, which is certainly a reason I have taken so long to read this short commentary on the Talmud and Torah focused on the nature of envy and other negative emotions. It seems this book has been patient with my slow understanding, and has served me well when I needed it most. I hope to read his other books.

[Jo Carol · Rating 1 out of 5]

Could have done without this one. Was recommended to me I didn't choose it. Very complicated and dense.

[Bruno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Um livro profundo. Fico feliz de poder tê-lo lido e aproveitado pelo menos um pouquinho. PAra ser relido.

[Michael Lewyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes too abstract for me, but sometimes well done. For example, I especially liked Bonder's treatment of difference. On the one hand, he emphasizes the value of being able to honor the differences that are part of nature. But at the same time, Bonder notes, rancor can arise from "a lack of sensitivity when expressing our differences in others".

[Juliana Moreira]

I will read this book. I found it, when sometimes I checked my twitter's friend.

[Marguith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book to read and read and read...