Everyday Mysticism

Everyday Mysticism is a close look at a school for the study of the self in the deep Israeli desert. The school, which was established in the community of Neot Smadar in 1989, assumes the external form of a kibbutz, but is a contemplative community for individuals who seek to become aware of the devastating effects of mechanical thinking. The author spent several summers working in the community and describes, as a participant, the way that contemplative practice—everyday mysticism—shapes the work environment, the community structure and human relationships. The book also provides detailed examples of the spiritual work that was instituted by the founder of the school, Yossef Safra, whose vision is compared with ancient Buddhist and Hindu philosophers. That spiritual work takes place in conversations and dialogues where participants practice the art of listening as a meditative discipline while also learning to observe in fine detail the working of the conscious mind. These contemplative practices define the nature of community of Neot Smadar as an extended family were everyday mysticism prevails.