Misnagdim

misnagdim - Opposition to Chassidism was a popular movement that opposed the Chassidic way, partly due to misinformation, slander, and lies spread about the Chassidic movement, partly due to fundamental misunderstanding of the Chassidic way, and was supported broadly by the Maskilim (Enlightenment followers) who led many of the denunciations and physically fought against Chassidism, which strongly opposed the Enlightenment path.

Early Opposition

The opposition that arose in the Jewish community in Eastern Europe began with the establishment of the Chassidic movement in Volhynia by the Baal Shem Tov in 1740, continued with his student the Maggid of Mezeritch, and intensified during the time of the Alter Rebbe - founder of Chabad Chassidism. The opposition created large-scale division within the Jewish community, including persecution and excommunication, even leading to government informing. After three generations of conflict, the dispute subsided for a long time. In the 1980s, the dispute was rekindled by the then-head of the Ponovezh Yeshiva, though it has been diminishing again since his passing.

Initial Opposition

This opposition had several causes, with the main one being the emergence of Chassidism after the false messiah Sabbatai Zevi, whose actions had disastrous consequences, leading to fears that this movement would have similar results. Another factor was the dispute over the prohibition of studying Kabbalah. In early Chassidic times, the "Council of Four Lands" concentrated the ban against Chassidim.

The Vilna Gaon also opposed Chassidism and Chassidim due to misinformation from opponents. It's told that some opponents swore before the Vilna Gaon that Chassidim ate and drank on Tisha B'Av and danced with a girl. The truth behind their oath was that Tisha B'Av fell on Shabbat that year (when eating and drinking are permitted), and one Chassid danced while holding his infant daughter.

Additional Motivations

Additional reasons for opposition included false rumors spread about Chassidim not being God-fearing and disregarding certain commandments. Also, the Chassidic elevation of simple Jews was opposed, with claims that bringing closer simple Jews led to disrespect for Torah.

Opposition During the Maggid's Time

According to "Beit Rebbi," the conflict began in 1770 when some of the Vilna Gaon's students brought supposedly upright people who testified that Chassidim were careless with Jewish law and disregarded Torah and commandments. Part of their testimony was about seeing Chassidim eating and drinking on Tisha B'Av and dancing in mixed company, but they didn't mention that Tisha B'Av fell on Shabbat that year and the dancing was with a days-old infant girl.

Based on these stories and testimonies, the Vilna Gaon issued a letter excommunicating the Chassidim, saying they were from the sect of Sabbatai Zevi. The persecution intensified to the point where a proclamation was issued declaring Chassidic wine as forbidden and their bread as non-kosher, and forbidding marriage with them.

Chassidic Response

The Chassidim's situation, where they were persecuted due to constant incitement by opposition leaders, led the Maggid's students to travel to their teacher in Mezeritch to decide on their next steps. They ultimately issued their own ban against the opponents.

Modern Times

In recent years, particularly at Ponovezh Yeshiva, the opposition has gradually diminished. The Rebbe wrote that there are no real opponents within the Jewish people anymore, stating that even those who oppose in speech do so only from lack of knowledge, and when matters are properly explained to them, they not only cease their opposition but become friends and supporters.

The historic disputes have largely subsided, with increasing cooperation and mutual respect between Chassidic and Lithuanian communities in recent years. This is evidenced by various events and statements from Lithuanian leaders showing acceptance and appreciation of Chassidic leaders and institutions.