Hasidism

Refers to a type of Jewish mysticism characterized by an ascetic lifestyle, strict observance of the commandments, and loud ecstatic forms of worship and prayer. Its origins are usually traced back to Poland in the late 18th century and it was developed in opposition to rabbinic authority and certain Jewish traditions. Hasidism emphasizes prayer as a means of communicating with God as opposed to study of the Torah. As Hasidism spread throughout the world, it was eventually accepted as part of Orthodox Judaism.