Gate to the Heart: A Manual of Contemplative Jewish Practice

An excellent, short introduction to a deeper experience of Jewish prayer. Truly, Reb Zalman (z"l) knew the gate to the heart, and did his best to make that gate accessible to many. While there are more comprehensive and particular books available, this is a fine introduction, as well as a very solid reminder for one who already has a more developed, mindful, intentional custom. Clocking in at just over a hundred pages, it is an easy read and re-read. It may not change your life, but it might keep you in touch with the heart of prayer, or bring you closer to it; its greatest feature, I would say, is its recommendation to find a teacher, to study and learn further, and not take this as the whole of possible wisdom, let alone the wisdom one should seek. A very good option to consider, especially for those who want to go from rote recital to mindful intention, though it lacks the depth of "backstory" for individual prayers that some works offer.

If there was ever one book of choice to use as a recommendation into the advancement of Jewish Spiritual Life, then this would be my choice! The keys to your spiritual journey are all presented in this book. How? It is written as a guide and is very well outlined. You will then have a fuller understanding of how you can journey in your own meditations and prayers. I would never want to part from this book. It will be one book you'll want by your side. The more you grow spiritually, the more you will appreciate this book above all others as it will open the gate to your heart and can give you the spiritual keys to go further and explore the practice of Mystical Judaism. This book will give you the keys to the car. Or should I say the merkabah.

Rebbi Schachtel-Shalomi covers a great many important topics in just enough detail to give you understanding. It enabled me to relate to his teachings and apply them to my own spiritual practice.

This book is a must for anyone interested in Jewish contemplative practice, or for anyone wishing to live a more heart centered life. The magic of Gate to the Heart is in its universal applications, this practice transcends Jewish studies and should be read by anyone on a spiritual path.

A wonderful, thought-provoking book. Challenging and consoling. An invitation to deeper awareness.

I owned this book in its earlier incarnation and loved it then. This edition is even better! Recommended for anyone interested in a heart-centered approach to Jewish meditation and prayer.

Gate to the Heart arrived prior to the promised earliest day, in simply beautiful condition. Thank you so much!

Excellent book on Kabbalah. Even if you have studied for years, there are still many gems to be discovered.