Q&A: Hasidic Folklore
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Hasidic Folklore
Question
Do you think that a Hasid who observes the Passover stringencies customary in his Hasidic group—like Belz Hasidim, who do not eat cucumbers on Passover because of an incident that happened with the rebbe and the local nobleman—will receive reward for that, like for honoring the Sabbath and so on, or is the reward awaiting them exactly the same as the one awaiting me, who eats cucumbers? The question really applies, basically, to all sorts of stringencies throughout the year.
Answer
I don’t know. There is good intent here accompanied by foolishness. Maybe you get something for good intentions…
The idea of not eating certain foods on Passover does not stem only from technical Jewish law or from a question of kashrut; it reflects a deeper worldview. There is a time of year when we are called upon to rise above physicality, to work on self-control, and to refrain even from what is permitted. It is not only healthy for the body, but also refines the soul.
This restraint—the ability to stop and give up a little—is what brings us closer to ourselves and to holiness. It is a spiritual exercise that teaches us that there is value in giving things up, and that through this, things become better and more meaningful.