Sefarim
Reishis Chochma
The foundational work of Rabbi Eliyahu de Vidas on mussar, yiras shamayim, and the path to spiritual perfection.
About the Sefer
Reishis Chochma, authored by Rabbi Eliyahu de Vidas (c. 1518–1592), a student of the great Kabbalist Rabbi Moshe Cordovero (the Ramak) in Tzfas, is one of the most comprehensive and influential works of Jewish mussar and Kabbalah ever written.
The title is drawn from the verse 'Reishis chochma yiras Hashem' — 'The beginning of wisdom is the fear of God' (Tehillim 111:10). The sefer is organized around the fundamental middos and spiritual qualities a Jew must cultivate: yirah (awe), ahavah (love), teshuvah (repentance), kedushah (holiness), and anavah (humility).
Drawing on the full breadth of Talmud, Midrash, and Kabbalistic literature, Reishis Chochma has guided generations of Jews seeking to deepen their inner life and their relationship with the Almighty.
Shiurim on Reishis Chochma
Rabbi Bechhofer offers shiurim exploring the Reishis Chochma's teachings on yiras shamayim, ahavah, and the inner dimensions of Torah life. Contact us to access recordings or to arrange a shiur for your community.