Or Hahechal (which means "Light of the Sanctuary") was founded at the inspiration of two sages, The Kamarner Rebbi, Harav Yissachar Dov Safrin, and the Kabbalist, Harav Shlomo Vaaknin of Jerusalem. It is named in memory of the great Hassidic Master, the Holy Saint, Rabbi Isaac of Kamarna, whose Torah commentary Hechal Habberacha (The Chamber of Blessing) is a classic work in the field of Kabbalah and Hassidic Thought.

Or Hahechal is located in Ashkelon, Israel.

The Or Hahechal Center is unique in its method and its goals. In many ways, our center is modeled upon the original version of the "Hassidic Court" as it existed  before everything became institutionalized. In days of old there were no rigid scholastic courses, ostentatious buildings and sprawling campuses (which are expensive to keep up!) Back then it was much simpler. If you were seeking holiness, searching for wisdom or in need of counsel and healing...you simply went to the Tzaddik or Rebbe. You stayed as long as you could, and came as often as you were able, and returned home fulfilled. It did not matter if you were a scholar or a laborer, rich or poor, prominent or obscure.

At Or Hahechal we try our best to work in that spirit of humility and simplicity. Since students vary widely as to their abilities, background and mode of comprehension, most teaching is done in small groups or even on an individual basis.  Or Hahechal is a

spiritual home where a student can spend an hour or spend a year. Our students pick the time that is best for them. Our doors are open at just about any time of day or night. Teaching is provided free of charge. The Divine Light is the birthright of anyone who sincerely seeks it.

Or Hahechal's guide and mentor, Rabbi Nathan, studied Talmud and Jewish Philosophy at prominent Yeshivot, and Hassidut in the courts of Hassidic Rebbes  under the tutelage of elder hassidim. He was later ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. Rabbi Nathan studied Kabbalah with numerous teachers in Israel, most notably Rabbi Shlomo Vaaknin, (a student of the renowned sage Rabbi Yitzhak Kaduri) who revolutionized the way in which he now understands the Zohar, Kabbalah and life. Rabbi Nathan also holds a Masters degree in Pastoral Psychotherapy, and has over 20 years experience as a counselor.

For More information write to info@orhahechal.com

If you would like to support the work of Or Hahechal, write us. We offer you the opportunity to sponsor a day of study, teaching and helping others in Israel and around the world.