What is Mussar?

Writing in 11th century Spain, Rabbi Bahya Ibn Pakudah defined Mussar as “the science of the inner life.” He explained that “the very basis for an act… depends on the intention and inner life of the heart.”

Mussar is the mindful, spiritual practice of exploring and cultivating individual traits, known as Middot, in an attempt to develop one’s character and live a fulfilling, meaningful and intentional life.

What will we do in class?

Class time will primarily be spent in discussion. Rabbi Plumb brings a wide variety of texts, from ancient to modern, religious to secular, that will help illuminate the intricacies of the Middah being studied. The classes are collaborative, and participation is encouraged as it enhances the personal and collective experience. There will also be occasional meditations and journaling to help students focus their thinking. No prior knowlege of Hebrew or religious practice is necessary.

What is a chevruta? Do I have to find my own?

A chevruta (meaning ‘partnership’) is a pair or small group of students who study together. In Judaism, learning and study are a communal activity, the belief being that discussion, questioning, collaboration, and even disagreement, lead to a richer and deeper understanding of whatever is being contemplated.

You do NOT need to find your own chevruta. Rabbi Plumb will assign study partners, and you are free to schedule your biweekly meeting at your own convenience. However if you have a study partner already in mind, Rabbi Plumb will do her best to accommodate your preference.

What are Middot?

Middot are individual character traits. For example Anavah/humility, Gevurah/strength, and Chesed/loving kindness are some of the Middot we may study together. As we study these individual components of the soul, we will seek balance. When do we need to show more Gevurah (strength); when do we need less, and so on. By turning our attention to one character trait at a time, we can cultivate deep focus and intentionality as we craft the lives we want to live.