Approbation to Likutay Moharan by the Chozeh of Lublin

Approbation for Likutey Moharan

Note from the English Translator
The Chozeh of Lublin, Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchak Horowitz (1745–1815), was a towering figure in Jewish mysticism and Chassidic tradition. Revered as a holy visionary (Chozeh, meaning "Seer"), he was a leading disciple of the Maggid of Mezritch and Rabbi Elimelech of Lizhensk, establishing himself as a central figure in the spread of Chassidism in Poland. Known for his spiritual insight, piety, and ability to perceive divine truths, he was a mentor to many prominent Chassidic leaders, including Rabbi Simcha Bunim of Peshischa and Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Rimanov. His hagiography is filled with accounts of miracles, profound teachings, and a deep connection to the divine, earning him titles such as "The Pure Menorah" and "The Hidden and Concealed Light." His legacy endures in Jewish circles as a paragon of holiness and wisdom, with his works and teachings continuing to inspire generations.

By the holy and illustrious Rabbi, the Crown of Israel’s Glory, the Pure Menorah, the Light of the Seven Days, a Radiant Light in the Heavens, a Pure and Polished Light, a Hidden and Concealed Holy of Holies, renowned throughout the world for fame and honor, our teacher Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchak of Lublin, of blessed memory, author of Divrei Emes and other works:

Behold, a writing inscribed by the finger of God has come before me, sent by one of my esteemed colleagues, none other than my dear friend and relative, the great luminary, the holy man, the wonder of our generation, may his light shine, our teacher Rabbi Nachman, may his light shine. It contains selections filled to the brim with fear of God, expressed in profound and wise words imbued with divine understanding. I have carefully reviewed them, and I find these words to be exceedingly upright and honorable, requiring no further deliberation. For these words themselves bear witness and proclaim the truth in its essence, according to their subject matter, and they are living words of God.

This great man needs no endorsement from me or from those like me. For who am I, lowly and insignificant, devoid of stature, never having ventured into matters too great or wondrous for me, to offer approbation for new works? Yet, out of love for truth, I humbly state that my master’s greatness has compelled me. I hereby join those who approve the publication of these hidden pearls of wisdom. I stipulate that no similar printing should be undertaken for approximately ten years from the date below, lest the violator incur a curse, and so forth. May blessings of goodness come to those who heed this.

Today, Tuesday, the 26th of Tevet, 5568 [1808], here in Lublin.

These are the words of he who loves him, though I do not know him personally, and who prays for his well-being, health, and peace always.

Signed,
Yaakov Yitzchak, son of our teacher Rabbi Avraham Eliezer HaLevi Horowitz

The fault lies with those who empower the charlatans

HH

The great Chozeh (Seer) of Lublin tried to bring the Messiah, and he blamed his failure on his misconception that the problem lay with ignorance and short-comings of the masses, whereas in reality they lay with the leaders.

Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, says that this also is a misconception, because the leaders are deluded in such a way that they are considered mad and not fully responsible. The main fault lays with those who empower these charlatans. Even by calling them rabbi, this enslaves mankind, and causes and prolongs the exile.

Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman!