The Empty Chair: Finding Hope and Joy―Timeless Wisdom from a Hasidic Master, Rebbe Nachman of Breslov

by Rebbe Nachman, Moshe Mykoff (Adapted by)

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov (1772-1810) is best known for stories that possess profound depth and speak to the very soul. To others, his teachings shed light on some of the deepest mysteries. Here, is timeless wisdom, adapted by disciplines living in Jerusalem today, reaches out to us all: Never lose hope. Find joy and cause for happiness in everything that happens to you.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Religion, Spirituality, Mysticism, Judaica, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published May 31, 1994

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Most people think of forgetfulness as a defect, I consider it a great benefit." Reb Nachman page 108

[Margaret Klein · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a priceless book. However, its limitation is in that it is not searchable. Every page is filled with a great, digestible quote of Nachman of Breslov. Every page is an opportunity to enhance your spirituality. To engage in what Nachman himself called hitobedut. It is well worth the read but it is hard to hold onto any one quote. This is a book to be savored. Over time. One quote at a time until it is mastered. But the irony. These are the kind of quotes that will never be mastered.

[Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good diversion for the uh, cantorially belengthened sections of the High Holiday prayers. Unfortunately, this is only good for 17 minutes, then you'll need to raid the synagogue bookshelves for something meatier.

[Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep Sayings of The Hasidic Teacher: Nachman of Breslov.
One sentence can open up
an hour of meditation.
He suffered deeply and told how to overcome with joy.
Not with empty sayings, but with personal example and practical advice.
Simple, not easy.
I get something new every time I pick it up.
Every reading is new.
One of my favorite books for contemplation.

[Virginia Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book because it has a lot of spiritual insight, and its simple teachings really touch the soul. Finding hope and joy through spiritual peace is the best way to live your life.

[Kristen Stieffel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice little book of aphorisms. Had some unkind things to say about depression near the end. I’m not sure whether this is a translation problem (perhaps sadness or melancholy could have been used instead) or if this reflects the lack of understanding about this disease at the time. Rebbe Nachman was writing at the beginning of the 19th century. So, content warning for the last chapter if you struggle with depression. Otherwise a useful little book with plenty of wisdom.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

My absolute go-to pocket book for inspiration and hope.

[Jeffrey S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very short collection of the Reb's teachings. Quick read.

[AL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another collection of various aphorisms taken from his writings. Similar to The Gentle Weapon and yet still as valuable in its wisdom.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Food for thought. Very short book.

[The Cholo · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book is incredibly brief and the translation is not all that compelling. Think of this as a pocketbook of Nachman's sayings, a gathering of quotes.

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I carry this in my purse when I need a little pick me up/inspiration on those days that seem a bit harder than most.

[Shira · Rating 5 out of 5]

How have I not written a review of this?

As a high schooler with undiagnosed ADHD / anxiety I found this book magical. It's the right combination of pushing and comforting to be inspiring.

At various points in my life I've bought a bunch of copies and I give them to people going through a hard time... but this has gotten me into trouble on at least one occasion when I've tried to give this book to the same person twice, which is kind of insulting!

[Meredith · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nice to start the morning out with.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wisdom.

[Glenn Proven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I downloaded this from Project Gutenberg.org. for free. I recommend all check out site to see what is in public domain. No sign-in either.

[Gabriela Szteinberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

short and simple, yet beautiful!