The Debate in Minsk - Historical Sketches

In 1783, an important disputation took place in Minsk between leading Misnagdic geonim and R. Schneur Zalman of Liadi. The debate centered around R. Schneur Zalman's philosophy, which was based on the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov - teachings that the Mitnagdim vehemently opposed. Penned by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, The Debate in Minsk presents the background and story of this landmark event. Responding to the questions posed to him, R. Schneur Zalman passionately and sytematically outlined the basic doctrines of the Baal Shem Tov, demonstrating their veracity from genuine Torah sources and their place in mainstream Judaism.