Charismatic Personality and Halachah part 7

Throughout this series, I have used the term "charismatic" in a negative way; as one who demands honor and acceptance by virtue of his position, rather than his actual knowledge. But there is one class of Jewish leaders that openly operate on the level of charisma, who are accepted by many, though vilified by others. These are the Hasidic Rebbes, as well as the Sepharadic and Yemenite Mekubbalim (Kabbalists). Although many of these men are scholars in their own right, many are barely learned. There are also charlatans among them.Their claim to fame is not their learning, but the belief that their great piety has brought them to a state of devekut (clinging to G-d), that affords them the ability to ascertain G-d's will, and even intercede to change His will. A rationalist will dismiss all of this as chicanery. But millions of others find encounters with these men to be life changing. One of the disciples of Rabbi Elimelech of Lizhensk, was asked to describe his first meeting with the Tzaddik. "When I met him, he hugged me. I felt him taking a knife, plunge it into my heart. cutting it out, washing it with soap and water, replacing it in my chest, and sewing it up". Many followers of Rebbes and Mekkubalim will tell you similar experiences. Does this represent anything in Jewish tradition? In fact, it does. We find many of the Prophets being consulted on private, personal matters. (Think Saul's first encounter with Samuel). Similarly, in the Talmud, although most of the Sages are known for their erudition, some are known especially, or even exclusively, for their efficacious prayers, and the performance of miracles. (Think Hanina Ben Dosa and Honi Hame'agel). There is an interesting statement in the Talmud (Megillah 29a):

The verse states: “Yet I have been to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they have come” (Ezekiel 11:16). Rabbi Yitzḥak said: This is referring to the synagogues and study halls in Babylonia. And Rabbi Elazar said: This is referring to the house of our master, i.e., Rav, in Babylonia, from which Torah issues forth to the entire world.

We apparently have two approaches here. One, that G-d is to be found in Torah sources. The other, that G-d is to be found with those whose lives are a living Torah. But how are we to distinguish those who are truly connected to G-d, from those who are faking? A scholar will show a discerning person who he is the moment he opens his mouth. A charismatic person can use trickery, slight of hand, even hypnosis to establish his claims.How are we to know? That will be my next post.