The Practice of Spiritual Guidance

We call Judaism's coming era...
Neshamah Judaism, Soul Judaism.
- Rabbi Wayne Dosick

The Practice of Spiritual Guidance

From the time of the 1st Temple to the height of village life in Eastern Europe, Judaism has offered its adherents a relationship in which the spiritual life could be addressed. Prior to the common era, the Kohen’s or priests acted as intercessor’s to heaven, and guided Jews through major transitions of life through rites of passage, counsel, and magical actions. After the destruction of the 2nd temple, the “elder” served as spiritual advisor and, later, the Torah scholar became a holy guide. In the Middle Ages, the zaddik (righteous leader) acted as counselor, followed by the Rebbe of the 18th century. Today there is a growing interest in re-introducing the Yehidut or sacred encounter between seeker and guide through the teachings of theJewish tradition. Though most of us lead seemingly happy and productive lives, many of us hunger for something more. We want to be connected to something bigger than ourselves, and we want to find meaning in our existence. For a great number of people, these needs go unmet, even for those who enjoy synagogue worship or who are active participants in their congregation. Part of what Jewish spiritual guidance is about is helping seekers to fulfill their spiritual longings within Judaism. Jewish Spiritual Guidance offers a space for seekers to contemplate the meaning and purpose of their life. Through a relationship with a trained guide, a deeper awareness of self and God can be sought. Attentive listening, prayer, and sacred text are used to facilitate the soul centered dialogue. Though the conversation may include anything that is impacting the seekers life, the goal is to uncover the holy sparks in any situation and elevate them towards the divine. The Jewish Spiritual Guidance relationship may ultimately lead to healing, inner growth, loving wisdom, soul unmasking, and a deepened understanding of God.

Discernment

It is important to choose the right relationship for the type of guidance that you are seeking. Jewish Spiritual Guidance is not psychotherapy which is an area that focuses on problem-solving and coping with difficult life transitions by looking at your past and your reaction to it. Jewish Spiritual Guidance is also not pastoral counseling which is an area that assists people with life problems through the rituals and laws of religious tradition. Jewish Spiritual Guidance is not a relationship where you will find advice or premonition, the primary focus is your relationship with the divine presence and the integration of that relationship into your daily life.

Frequency of Meetings

Jewish Spiritual Guidance is a process that is ongoing. Usually, Spiritual Guidance meetings are scheduled once a month for one hour. The guidance relationship continues for as long as seeker and guide find it beneficial. Typically, an evaluation of the relationship will be considered every four to six months.

Cost

Placing a value on Spiritual Guidance is difficult. In the traditionof the ancient Rebbes, it is asked that you offer a donation that is commensurate with your financial situation. Multiples of "Chai," $18, $36, $54, $72, for example, is a good scale for Jewish giving.

Poem

When I do not know
where to go,
I see the cloud of God
surround me,
and I simply wait.
When the cloud descends,
stay quiet
and make no decisions.
God is with you
in the cloud.
When it lifts,
you journey on.

- Rabbi Karyn Kedar
God Whispers

Scheduling Sessions

To schedule
an initial
appointment....
847-550-0242
dina@tekiah.com

Jewish Spiritual Guidance
Accessing the still small voice through the wisdom of the Jewish tradition.

For more info, contact dina@tekiah.com