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The Conversion
Rabbi Jacob Joseph of Sharigrod was one of the Baal Shem’s most zealous opponents. He was irate with frustration over the H assids' way of life because the same longing was secretly plucking at his own soul. He was envious of the happiness which erupted in their feasts and holidays, exploding into joyous dance and song. On one of his journeys, the Baal Shem visited the community of Sharigrod, where Rabbi Jacob Joseph lived and worked. He came to the village while dawn was breaking and the shutters were still closed on the windows. He began to talk to early risers about everyday matters and soon the entire village was gathered around him, listening so attentively that time appeared to stand still. The Baal Shem looked up and saw Rabbi Jacob on his way to the synagogue, his face reflecting his conflicting feelings of animosity and ardour. Not long after, a great wedding was held in Medzyborz, and Rabbi Jacob travelled with his disciples to participate in the festivities. Listening to the Master’s wedding speech, he was overcome by the urgings of his own heart. He put aside his past misgivings and it fell unto Rabbi Jacob Joseph's lot to preserve the teaching of the Master in writing, to be handed down to the generations to come.
"Do not judge your fellowman until you have been in his position; do not say of anything that it cannot possi6ly be heard, for eventually it will be heard..." (Pirkei Avot 2:4)
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