Rabbi Yisroel (Israel) Hopstein (1737–1814), also known as the Maggid of Kozhnitz, was the founder of Kozhnitz Hasidism, and a noted hasidic leader in Poland during the late 18th and early 19th century. He was a student of both the Magid/Dov Ber of Mezeritch and Elimelech of Lizhensk, and wrote many books on Chassidus and Kabalah.

Biography

Hopstein was born in Opatów, to his father, Shabbetai, who was at an advanced age, after having received a blessing from the Baal Shem Tov. The father was a bookbinder; his mother's name was Perl.

As a young child he was recognized as an illui (prodigy). He studied under the tutelage of Rabbi Shmelke of Nikolsburg, who eventually convinced Hopstein to learn with Dov Ber, the Maggid of Mezritch. After the passing of Dov Ber, he went to learn with Elimelech of Lizhensk.

Hopstein lived for years in Kozhnitz (Kozienice), was founder of the Kozhnitz Hasidic dynasty, and died the 14th of Tishrei (Sept. 28, 1814).

Family

Hopstein was married to Royze. They had 3 children, (two sons and one daughter):

Rabbi Moshe Elyakim who eventually replaced his father as Rebbe after Hopstein's death,
Leah Perl (who married Avi Ezra Zelig Shapira, Rabbi of Grenitz), and,
Mottel, who died in his youth.

Books

Hopstein authored many works, including:

Avodat Yisrael, a commentary on the Torah and Pirkei Avot
Beit Yisrael on Talmud
Chidushei Maggid Mishna on Mishnayot
Geulat Yisrael on Maharal's works
Gevurat Yisrael, a commentary on the Haggadah of Pesach
Nezer Yisrael, a commentary on the Zohar
She'erit Yisrael on Midrash,
Ta'amei Mitzvot, a commentary on the 613 Mitzvot
Yakar MiPaz on Torah
Or Yisrael, a commentary on the Tikunei HaZohar

May the merit of the tzadik Rabbi Yisroel (Israel) Hopstein protect us all. Amen