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The printing and distribution of this book is done with the intention of fulfilling the wishes of the holy Rabbi Yisroel Ber Odesser of blessed memory who urged us in his last will and testament to continue the work of spreading the light, wisdom and name of the holy Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, ' Rebbe Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman ' to every home throughout the world. May the final redemption be hastened through this work
sponsored by New Outreach Project
The Tales of Rabbi Nachman:
The Lost Princess ......................................... 5 The King and the Emperor........................... 12 The Cripple.................................................... 25 The King Who Decreed Annihilation............ 38
The Prince Who was Made of Precious Stones.... 44
The Humble King…….................................... 47 The Fly and the Spider.................................. 50 The Rabbi and his Only Son......................... 55 The Clever and the Simple One................... 59 The Merchant and the Poor Man.................. 81
The Son of the King and the Son of the Maid..... 106
The Master of Prayer................................... 125 The Seven Beggers..................................... 169
What is Na Nach Nachma Nachman Me-uman?...201
in order to search for her. who had six sons and one daughter." And he went a very long time on that path. he saw a castle. Afterward. a horse. no one knew where she was. and in the morning. and he went everywhere looking for her. (And following is the account of his search. and took great delight in her. And he searched for her a very long time. He went from place to place.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE LOST PRINCESS He said: Along the way. and asked that he provide him with a servant. he spoke with her and lost his temper. and money for the journey. in deserts. and the words "May the no good one take you!" flew from his mouth. The second to the king stood up. He searched for a very long time. he saw a path to the side. I told a story. until he found her. As he was crossing a desert. And it is as follows: There once was a king. This daughter was very precious in his eyes. One time. for a very long time. with several soldiers standing guard around it. In the evening she went to her room. for he saw that the king was very troubled. fields and forests. And her father was very distraught. until he found her). I'll try this path maybe I'll come to a settled area. The castle was very attractive and well-built. and thought to himself: "Seeing that I've been going such a long time in the desert and I cannot find her. 5 . He loved her exceptionally. that everyone who heard had thoughts of repentance.
" So he left the horse behind. to see what would transpire there. and that he had been searching for several years. "How can I get you out of here?" She answered. They placed a chair for her and sat her next to the king. And he saw there delicacies and fine foods. saw and recognized her. He went from room to room without disturbance. and neither the king nor any of the others inquired about him at all. And he asked. the queen gazed about and saw a man lying in a corner. She stood from her chair and went over to him. and came to one reception hall. this place. "Do you recognize me?" He answered. and asked him. nudging him. And she was the above-mentioned princess. I do. You're the princess who was lost.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and the soldiers were impressively aligned around it. The musicians played and sang a great deal. and musicians with their instruments standing before him. "How did you come to be here?" She answered. "I will go and try. He saw that the king ordered for the queen to be brought. And the soldiers did not hinder him." And he asked her. being that they were bringing the queen. It was all very pleasant and beautiful. and here. He worried that the soldiers would not allow him to enter. and he (the second to the king). "The only possible 6 . is no good. They went to bring her. But he said to himself. and he approached and ate and went to lie down in a corner. in which the king sat. And there were a number of guards. "Yes. and there ensued a great commotion and joy. and approached the castle. "Because my father blurted out the words `The no good one should take you'." So he told her that her father was very saddened. and recognized him. wearing his crown. After that.
it is very difficult not to eat. he dropped and fell asleep.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN way to take me out is if you choose a place. he fasted. And she revealed her great distress to him. Immediately after having eaten. And the whole year. and he approached and ate from them. "Where am I in the world?" And the servant told him the story: "You were sleeping a very long time. And they were tantalizing to his eyes. And I survived on the fruit. "If you had only come on that day. and he slept a very long time. and dwell there also a year. he awoke from his sleep. especially on the last day. and dwell there a full year.) So now. So he returned there and found her. And on the last day you will be allowed to eat. and on it were growing very attractive apples." So he went and did accordingly." So he went to do this. you should fast and not sleep the entire day. choose a place again. Nevertheless. Any time that you have free. (That is to say. and because of one day. you lost everything. and asked the servant. and on the last day of the year. and did not sleep. you must long to take me out. And on the way he saw a tree. several years. for that is a very hard condition to meet. For the essential thing is not to sleep. His servant would try to wake him. and must not drink wine. And do fasts. you would have removed me from here. as before. that you should not fall asleep. when the evil inclination is very overpowering. the princess told him that now she would make the conditions more lenient. Afterwards. On the last day of the year. 7 . that from now he would not be expected to fast. but to no avail." And he was very pained upon hearing this. Only you must not sleep. you should only long and request and hope to free me. and rose and began the journey back.
She shook him strongly. to be exact. and wrote upon it with her tears. he awoke. descended and sat by him..all her mourning and crying. and in it sat the princess. and asked the servant. After that passed a covered carriage. And she started to bemoan. and lost it. these many years. but he did not wake. and saw a spring. she took her handkerchief from off of her head. So he asked "Where did this come from?" The servant explained that she had written upon it with her tears. "Did you see that spring. and rode away. and a woman who wept upon him and cried out. but its color is red. Afterwards. and that she is no longer in the aforementioned castle." And she cried a great deal about this. So he took it and held it up against the sun. and because of one day that he could have freed me." After that. And great numbers of soldiers passed with the equipment that accompanied them. he went there. that ought to have water in it. and laid it by him. 8 . "How many immense efforts and travails he has undergone. and cannot leave. that I am here so very long. and began to see the letters. and he read all that was written there . he looked around and saw that there was a handkerchief lying next to him.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN On the last day. He asked the servant. The servant hid himself from the soldiers. that there is great pity on him and on her. and its scent is of wine?" And he went and tasted from the spring. In the midst of this. And she rose and boarded her carriage. and that there had been a carriage. She stopped by him. And he immediately fell into a sleep that lasted several years . saying "There is great pity for him and for me. recognizing who he was. with a red appearance and the fragrance of wine. "Where am I in the world?" So he told him the whole story . in order to free me.that many soldiers had passed there..seventy.
" For he was an expert in geography. And this giant discouraged him. Yet he (the Second to the King) still said that it must exist. for he felt certain that it must exist somewhere. But since you persist. And all of them answered that they had not seen these things. for it surely does not exist. 9 . from the smallest to the largest. So he left the servant behind. and that he was searching for a mountain of gold and a castle of pearls." The giant was amazed." So he told him the whole story. and thought to himself. "Certainly a mountain of gold and a castle of pearls would not be found in a settled area." And he called them all. And he searched for her there many years. he saw a giant man. For they traverse the whole world. There he would find her. And he went for several years searching.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and that he should look for a mountain of gold and a castle of pearls. the size of which is not found in settled areas. and I have never seen a man here. "Certainly. I am appointed over all the animals. So the giant said to him. Afterwards. and exclaimed. and asked them. "I am a man. I will do this for you: I will call them all. "I have been in the desert such a long time. "I think it is nonsense. and went to look for her alone. So he went to the deserts. The giant answered him. perhaps one of them will know where is the mountain and the castle. He was carrying a massive tree. saying that certainly he had been told nonsense. "Who are you?" He answered. all the varieties of animals. it does not exist at all." And he discouraged him and said that they had muddled his mind with nonsense. So he started to cry bitterly. far beyond the normal human limits of size. The man asked him.
since they fly at great heights . And the giant asked him. "You see that they told you nonsense. If you want my advice. and he was also carrying a giant tree. saying "It certainly exists!" So the giant said to him. 10 . and they answered that they did not know anything about this mountain and castle." So he went for several years searching for him. as before. who is appointed over all the winds. turn back. saying that it certainly did not exist.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN So he said. And he pleaded with him as well.perhaps they saw this mountain and castle. and they run over the whole world. So the giant said to him. "Further ahead in the desert lives my brother. "See. as before. And he told him the whole story. it certainly does not exist. And this giant also asked him as had the first. turn back. And he pleaded with him as with the first. and found also this giant. "But it absolutely must exist!" So the giant said to him. Perhaps they know. as before. in this desert also lives my brother. and asked them all. perhaps they know." And he pleaded passionately with him. saying." So he called all the birds. This giant also discouraged him. "You see. Then the giant said to him. because you certainly will not find it. If you want my advice. as the others had. And again he found a very large man. as before." But he pleaded with him. for it simply does not exist. Perhaps they know. and that his brother had sent him to him. And he told him the whole story. I will call them. And the giant discouraged him." So he went several more years searching. He was also carrying a massive tree. for it does not exist. I am appointed over all the birds. "Behold. from the smallest to the largest. and he is appointed over all the birds. Go to him and tell him that I sent you to him.
He approached a man. took out money and bribed them. For it would need much intelligence and wisdom to free her. And how he freed her. but in the end he freed her. Perhaps now you will be hindered by expenses." And he commanded the previous wind to take him there. what things are considered valuable and important there?)" He answered him. 11 . you will receive money from it. "I know that it exists!" As they were speaking. and you went through many difficulties. he did not tell. There were guards posted there." And the Second to the King began to cry bitterly. saying. The one appointed asked the wind. and said. for I needed to carry a princess to a mountain of gold and a castle of pearls. and brought him there." So the one appointed over the winds said to the Second to the King. and rented lodgings." And the Second to the King was overjoyed. He called them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN So the third giant said to him. one more wind came. and all the winds came. and entered the city. And it was a beautiful city. for he would need to stay there some time. "Everything there is very expensive. "What is expensive there? (That is to say. So the giant said to him. "I was delayed. and not one of them knew about the mountain and the castle. right to the gate. "Seeing that you have been searching for her such a long time. and he asked them all. The wind came storming. they told you nonsense. that would not let him enter the city. And the one appointed over them was annoyed with him. "You see. Therefore I am giving you this vessel. "Why did you not come with the rest?" He answered. that for his sake he would call all the winds and ask them. So he reached into the vessel. Every time you reach into it.
Afterwards. and they made a pact to get married. 12 . who had no children. who also had no children. their wives would conceive a son and a daughter. and the king returned and conceived a son. The son of the king took a ring and placed it on the finger of the emperor's daughter. The emperor went to travel across the land. The king also recognized the same in the emperor. And a king. So they made a pact. in a manner that they could be married. and they happened to meet in a particular inn. and the emperor informed him as well. And they revealed to each other that they were travelling for the aim of having children. that if after returning to their homes. They came to love each other very much. and they forgot about the pact. and they married. and the two of them happened to be enrolled under the same teacher. to wander and search . The emperor returned home and conceived a daughter. and brought them home. and also the king sent his son to study. and he informed him that he was a king. though they were not acquainted with each other. then they would have them married. So he asked him. the emperor sent after his daughter.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE KING AND THE EMPEROR There once was an emperor.perhaps he would find some counsel or medicine to conceive children. The emperor sent his daughter to study. and the king sent after his son. And the emperor noted in the king. that he had royal manners. The king also set out in the same manner.
He asked her. The king's son longed deeply to see the emperor's daughter. "What will we do. The emperor did not want it. "Even so. For he was with him then. he would give his daughter to him. So he asked the king to send his son to him. One time he went to a glass wall. for they had already agreed to it. Then the king remembered the agreement he had made with the emperor. And the king's son longed intensely for her. and he explained to them the matter. So they said to his servant. So the king sent his son to him. because of the pact between them. "Perhaps you can investigate why?" He answered them that he already knew. And the son of the king pined for her. Also. and if so. seeing that your father does not want the match?" She answered. in the place where he had studied. 13 . They hired a ship and sailed. woke him. but they did not allow him. And she came to him. and revealed that she did not want any other match. but she did not want any match because of the aforementioned pact. to see if he could rule the country. the emperor's daughter was constantly depressed. but he did not dare to refuse. and displayed her wealth to her. until he became sick. and he would see if he had the quality of rulership. he would not answer. The emperor seated him in a room. and saw her." Afterwards. they came upon the idea that they would sail out to sea. giving him papers of government matters. and still she was sad. So he wrote to the emperor.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN They spoke of matches for the emperor's daughter. and collapsed in weakness. that he should prepare himself for the wedding. The emperor would lead her through his courtyards and palaces. And when they asked him why he was sick.
and I will be left empty-handed. One time. and you will pass away. Also she became increasingly lost.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN They continued to sail. and your ministers are not looking out for me at all. who had dealings all over the world. and there was there a forest. The daughter of the emperor took off the ring and gave it to him. the emperor's daughter remembered that they had forgotten the ring there. and he laid the ring next to her. and there were fruit trees there. and they entered it. So she went to look for him. and I'll set to sea. so she sent him back for it. to become expert in business. He went there. He went from place to place looking for it. but could not find the place. So he went to another place. She went to the shore. They reached the shore. they rose and returned to the ship. the son of the king decided to rest next to her. and eventually wanted to come to shore." So his father gave 14 . "Seeing that you are old and I am young. and she went to sleep there. and in the day she would walk by the sea. and decided to go and sit by the sea. And he continued on. that there was a very powerful and impressive businessman. without what to do. and the businessman was elderly. until he became lost. he saw a path. Afterwards. So she sat there. to be protected from the wild animals. And it was. the son said to his father. hoping to find ships passing by. He had an only son. She lived off of the fruits. and she also lost her way. Afterwards. He did not have anything to do there. and still could not find the ring. Why don't you give me a ship with merchandise. and followed it to a settlement. so he became a servant. After a time. and at night she climbed up into the trees. Meanwhile. and could not find his way back. become more and more lost.
and saw that there was a person sitting in the tree. And he rejoiced in his find. He saw that she knew how to play instruments. and he wanted to turn back. so that he would keep headed toward that tree. He arrived there. and was successful. While he was at sea. and sent out one man in a small boat. and after that she would reveal who she was (for even before. He wanted to go there. she said to him that it would be proper for him to go to the house. and he told them. she had demanded that he not ask her name until after the wedding . so that he would not lose his way. They decided to approach the place. so that all of them would come out to welcome her. She answered that she would not descend unless he promised her that he would not touch her.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN him a ship with merchandise.only then he 15 . and he told her to come down. and saw that she was sitting there (the emperor's daughter). and inform his father and relatives. he happened to gaze on one tree. until they returned to his house and he married her lawfully. sold his goods. They kept watch on him to direct him. So the trader's son went himself. bought others in their place. he saw that it was only trees. as they began to near his house. he saw those trees wherein was the emperor's daughter. So he promised her. Just then. Afterwards. and thought it was a settlement. and all his friends. and as he drew closer. so he told the other people who were with him. and she also spoke several languages. and he went to various countries. and they looked and also saw the form of a man in the tree. He thought he might be misperceiving. and within it was the form of a man. and she boarded the ship with him.
He said. And so he wandered aimlessly. And when they were asked. 16 . and gave it to them. While the family were preparing themselves to go out and receive her. and found them lying drunk. And it was. and sailed away. The father was enraged at his son. "Go and ask the sailors. and found nothing there. warning him not to come within his presence."And he agreed. They only knew that they had brought a ship with merchandise. "Believe me. And the ships would pass there. and they became very drunk. because of the sea air. for it pleased him to build palaces on the sea. she went and released the ship from its moorings. and spread the sails. And the emperor's daughter was sailing the sea. The son exclaimed excitedly.) He agreed to this. The family went down to the ship. who had built a palace on the sea. The king gazed and saw a ship without anyone directing it. and banished him from the house. without people at all. "It would also be fitting.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN would know who she was. so that they should know that their captain is marrying such a woman. that there was a certain king. So he took good wine that he had in the ship. Afterwards they awoke. and she (the emperor's daughter) sailed on the sea." They went to ask them. and did not know where it was. seeing that you are bringing such an important woman with you. And the old businessman (the trader's father) was very angry with him. that you should honor all the sailors in the ship with fine wine. he went to his house. they did not know at all what had happened to them. and she came close to this king's palace. Meanwhile. to tell his father and relatives. She added. And the sailors left the ship and collapsed in a drunken stupor. I brought a ship full of merchandise!" And they did not see a thing.
to be with her. And he promised her accordingly. And he built a palace for her. that they should gather together and come to his wedding.the abundance of merchandise that she had brought. and also the opposite. Then she said she would honor them with fine wine that she had. One time. and they sent her eleven daughters of very high-ranking ministers. And so he swore. Afterwards she thought to herself. And she said that it was fitting that he not open the ship's hold. and they also saw likewise. That people should not say he had taken a woman from off the street. But the king sent to bring her back. and made off with 17 . And she demanded that they bring her eleven of the ministers' daughters. Meanwhile. Thus the king commanded. Then everyone would see it all . So the king wrote to all the nations. Rather it should stay in its place on the sea until the marriage. and they became drunk and fell into a stupor. for he could not choose one. nor tamper with it. she asked him to swear that he would not touch her until he married her lawfully. and they went with her and entertained themselves there. so he asked his people to look. and she gave them from the wine on the ship.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN He thought he was mistaken. For the ones he desired. and spread out the sails. and he brought her into his house. and she also had her own palace. And this king had no wife. When the emperor's daughter came. did not want him. and would play on instruments and pass the time with her. They would gather together with her. "What do I need with this palace?" So she started to turn back. she asked them to come with her onto the ship. she went and released the ship. and she drew closer to the palace. And they built a palace especially for each one.
They did. Now the king and his people looked and noticed that the ship was not there." So they agreed to dethrone and banish him. Upon not finding their daughters. they thought to themselves. and assumed that she was still in her room). for they did not realize that the ship had already left shore. And they were very shocked. and found no one. So they agreed to send an elderly mistress in the night to tell her. So they took matters in their hands. and sending him to the prison for those deserving the death penalty. the daughters woke up. who were accustomed to receiving letters from their daughters. They went to her room and found no one there. that he should be imprisoned? For he had no control over the matter. the fathers of the missing women. Meanwhile. She also might think that the king gave the ship to someone. As for the daughter of the emperor. Afterwards. she escaped with the eleven ministers' daughters. The king said. They considered banishing the king. However. "What is the King's sin. "Beware not to tell her all at once. and then to another. For they were the ministers of the nation. 18 ." They went to one room and did not find anyone. and he went his way. and resumed their play. and so to all the eleven rooms. now noticed that they were not receiving any letters. having the power to mete out punishments such as this. they were enraged. and sailed away in the ship.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN the ship. and were shocked. and travelled there themselves. for she will be very distressed at the loss of such a valuable ship as that one (for the king did not know that she herself had escaped with the ship. Simply send one of the ministers' daughters to tell her with wisdom.
whereas you use brute force. After this. who wanted to murder them. So the emperor's daughter asked. "We must return home!" Then she revealed to them that the ship had already left the shore. she announced that she wanted to honor them with a fine and wondrous wine that she had in the ship. For we are learned in languages and in playing of instruments. and they played their instruments. they saw an island. and she explained that she feared the ship would be broken apart by the storm wind. "Let's approach it!" But she did not want to do it. being that she regretted having come near the first palace (the one belonging to the king who wanted to marry her). Then they passed by a palace. and the daughters said to her. "What is your trade?" He answered that they were thieves. Then. So the thieves also showed them all their wealth. and then you can also acquire all our wealth. They asked her why she had done this. She said. and her words won them over. Then she asked him." After this. the most honored according to his high standing. and led them through their whole camp. and approached it. Therefore she had no choice but to unfurl and spread the sails. "Who is the chief among you?" So they introduced her to him. There were twelve thieves there." And she showed him the riches that were in their ship. and so on. However. that each of the thieves should choose a bride befitting him. Further. "Let's stay a while longer. "Let's return!" She said to them. They agreed that they would not marry all at once. rather one pair after another. "We are also thieves. She told them 19 . So they sailed on the sea. we use wisdom. So what would you benefit by murdering us? Better to marry us. a fierce storm developed. and they said.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Presently they said to her.
At one point. So he went with his wife and his ministers. They drank. became intoxicated and collapsed. G-d forbid. "I can bring that baldhead toppling into the sea (that is. in case. Now the emperor's daughter came along in her ship. And they began to dare to climb up onto the prow. and they were very jubilant and in a spirit of festivity. and saw this other ship (the ship with the king's son and his company). And they threw from their ship possessions which were not so valuable. and so they did. And they found incredible wealth." 20 . guarding it instead for the day when Hashem would let her meet her intended match. So they drew near. She said to her companions. and asked each of the thieves to drink from one. and bequeathed the kingdom to him. After coming a bit closer.the gold and stones they had found. He married him off. she saw that they were merrymaking. They left on nothing except their undergarments." So they did. that she should be accustomed to the sea air. there was an elderly king who had an only son. the king's son among them. and loaded it with the treasure .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN that she had intended never to use it. and sewed for themselves mens' clothing.only gold and precious stones. beyond that of any king. the king's son. Then she served them the wine in twelve goblets. They agreed to cease dressing as women. and at first she was afraid to draw near it. each one and slaughter her husband. "Go now. and realized that they were not thieves. They agreed not to take any brass or silver . And the king's son said that he and his wife should take a cruise at sea. they decided they should strip off all their clothes. they might at some point need to escape on the sea. and sailed away in the ship. who was climbing the prow). Now. Then she said to her friends.
she just happened to know these things. When the friends of the king's son saw that he had fallen. And they asked her to come home with them. until his brain was burned and he fell into the sea. For if he fell from the middle of it. and told them (the emperor's daughter and her friends) not to be afraid. perhaps they would find a doctor on board who could give them advice. "Perhaps there is a doctor among you who could advise us?" And they recounted the whole story of how the king's son had fallen into the sea. and then she took the lens and held it up to the sun. for how could they return home the king would die from sorrow.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN For he was in fact bald. She added that she would not topple him until he climbed to the very tip of the prow. and to be the king's doctor. and she would use one to topple him. and directed it's ray squarely at his head. So they decided to draw near to the ship they saw nearby (the ship of the emperor's daughter). and said she would be very important and esteemed. And she added that she was not really a doctor. They went and found his body and retrieved it. Then they asked. he would fall into the ship. So she waited until he climbed all the way to the tip. and said that his brain had been burnt. Her friends replied. But she did not want to go. But if he climbed to the tip. and they were astonished. So they came next to the ship. they would not do them any harm. "But how? We are so far away from them!" She explained to them that there is a lens with the power to burn. 21 . So they cut open his head. it threw them into upheaval. he would fall into the sea. The emperor's daughter answered that they should retrieve his body from the sea. Then she took his pulse. and saw that it was just as she had said.
But she feared from her country's people. whereas their original king (the elderly king mentioned at the beginning). And they were very strongly in favor of their queen marrying the doctor. Thus. when they awoke from their stupor. only that her nation should agree to it. and they became drunk. the emperor's daughter). they would murder.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The ministers of the king did not want to return home. they wanted their queen (the wife of the king who had died). The doctor (that is." Afterwards. because of the impressive wisdom they saw in him (for they thought that the emperor's daughter and her friends were men. saying "It would be very fine. so the two ships sailed together. And that he should become their king. When the day arrived for the doctor's (the emperor's daughter's) party. if only they would say it without being drunk. They all wanted this very much." the doctor replied. yet they felt they could not speak about it to the queen. She herself also wanted very much to marry the doctor. At the opportune moment. saying how fine it would be for her to marry the doctor. that she should marry the doctor. the ministers said. each on a different day. they could talk about this. "How fine it would be for the queen to marry the doctor. So they held a party for each one. So they agreed to throw parties. lest they not be willing to accept him as king. to marry the doctor." "It would be very fine. at an opportune moment. "If they would only say it without being drunk. responded again as before. (who was really the emperor's daughter). because they were dressed as men. so that during a party. she gave them to drink from her aforementioned wine." Also the queen responded. the ministers remembered what they had said and were embarrassed 22 .
and make a disturbed face (that is. who they believed to be a doctor). 23 . and that they had already accepted upon themselves this new king that had come with them. And the king commanded that they should dig wells surrounding the whole city. and that all would receive great gifts. that everyone in every place. and they had not known where he was. that they should watch for someone who would come and stare an unusuallly long time at the portrait. but would find a well right beside him. she herself had said the same. Now the king (the emperor's daughter. She was also embarrassed before them. So they asked. that all should come to the king's wedding. The elderly king had already passed away before their return. who should now be their king. was missing. so that when one would want to drink. And so the queen was married to the doctor (the emperor's daughter. However. one whose expression would change. be he a foreigner. And the king commanded to paint a portrait of himself by every well. for it had been a long time that the king's son had been gone. and came to agree on it. without exception. and they travelled to their country. but on the other hand. they had also said it. they noticed that the king's son. upon seeing something significant and being amazed and disturbed by it). So they started to talk about it.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN before their queen on account of it. he would not have to go far. and to station guards by each one. "Where is our King?" So they explained to them the whole story. they were very joyful. a fugitive or one banished. For such a one. who had now become a king) commanded to declare in every state. And the people were very joyous that a new king had come to them. how he had already died. Afterwards. When the people of the country saw them coming. a guest.
So they brought the three. it now held all the treasures she had taken from the thieves .let us go and travel away.a very tremendous wealth. King (that is. Your father banished you on account of the ship with all the merchandise which you lost. the king who was dethroned as described). The emperor's daughter spoke up and said: "You. for she escaped from him with the eleven ministers' daughters). businessman. "You. They dethroned you on account of the eleven daughters that were lost. for she was dressed as a man. and the son of the businessman (whose father had banished him because of the emperor's daughter. And each one of them recognized her portrait. And in addition. overflowing in abundance). and remembered. Here are your ministers' daughters. 24 . and gazed at it. was still with her in perfect condition." And they returned to their home. now you have riches in the ship many times the original value (for the ship itself. amen and amen. And now you. the king (the emperor's daughter) commanded that the prisoners come before her. with all the merchandise of the businessman's son. her true husband) . and was pained. she turned her face to address the son of the businessman.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN he commanded that they arrest and hold him. who escaped with the ship loaded with merchandise). who was the true husband of the emperor's daughter. At the time of the wedding." Then. Here is your ship with all the merchandise. Blessed is the L-rd forever. and she recognized them. And they were all arrested. son of the king (that is. And as for all the time lost. And the three aforementioned characters came: The son of the first king. but they did not recognize her. and the king who was dethroned (also by her doing. Go back to your country and your kingdom (for the eleven ministers' daughters were here with her). And so they did.
and left behind his sons. "Why should we have to support him? It's good that he should have a trade. and they provided him so much that he had money to spare. There he would be able to do business. And he hired a carriage. they were approving. in order that he could conduct his trading. and said. but they should make a special effort to water trees.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE CRIPPLE There once was a wise man. the wise man died. They would also be permitted to do other types of work. but he did not agree. These men had become robbers because of a famine that had been at one time. an escort and a driver. and commanded them to water trees." They lent him more money. but could not walk. but he was stubbornly set. "Why should I accept charity from them. Now this son saved up the extra money until he reached a certain sum. and were ambushed by robbers. Afterwards. well-known for its trade and fairs). and he had one son who could not walk. They became lost in the forest. They tried to convince him. he decided to hire a carriage. Before his passing. even though he could not walk. and travel with them to Leipzig (a city in East Germany. His brothers would support him. and the escort said they should stay there the night. They came to an inn. he called together his sons and family. Better that I start to do some business. an escort and a driver. Then he said to himself. and set out. A man had come to their city and 25 . He could stand. When his family heard this." And even though he was not able to walk. and so they went onward.
and went with them to the forest. come to me. and be an escort and carriage driver here." And several people gathered about him. and asked him: "Why are you sitting?" He answered them that he was unable to walk. he pondered what to do. "You should work on a gristmill. he ate it. So the son was left behind on the carriage. There he said that they should become thieves." And to another he would say. Meanwhile. And to one he would say. And traders would pass there." He chose only intelligent people. the escort and the driver escaped to where they escaped. So they stole the chest and the horses. 26 . Now the carriage driver and the escort. as long as he had the dried cracker-bread that he had brought from home. and he was left on the carriage. And as for the son. so they could steal from them and gather up money. he pushed away. And he would eat the grass surrounding him. Breslov.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN announced. and then threw himself from the carriage to eat grass. so they reasoned. and anyone who he judged that he did not need. until he finished all the grass within his reach. He acted with cleverness. And he slept alone. in the open field. And so they fell upon the son who could not walk. His strength waned. The thieves came and took the chest with the money. and his two companions. Why should we go back? We could end up in chains. Better to stay here. frightened. They had unpaid debts in their hometown. with roads leading to Leipzig. and he had nothing to eat. "You would be fitting as a craftsman. Afterwards. and other cities. who were able to escape. being that they were at a crossroads. he could only crawl. when his supply ran out. "He who wants food. did so. until he could no longer even stand.
each one effective for a different aim. it was the place where the sun and the moon join together. and each side had a different magic power.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN At that point. so they draw 27 . and they do not have power in their feet. Surrounding these are another thousand. fruit and leaf has a unique power . that the one who grasps this side would be transported to the place where day and night come together. On one side was written. It so happens that I have a thousand mountains. And this tree needed watering. and behold. And he heard the sun and the moon talking together. he came to a patch of grass." The moon answered and said. it would be very effective. another for curing this disease. and it is a place of demons.one is effective in bringing children. Let me tell you about mine. and fruit and leaves. And it transported him. "And not only is it not being watered. He decided to pull it up from the root. because I shine on it. Further. And these demons have chicken feet. for he had been eating grass a long time. he happened to grasp this side. And when he uprooted the grass which grew over the stone. And it attracted him. And he ate grass in this manner for some time. another for wealth. I am drying it out. that there is a tree with many branches. and he came to the place where day and night are brought together. and if it were watered. and had never seen grass like this. and where the sun and moon come together. And every single branch. He looked about. "You think you have problems. The sun was complaining to the moon. and eat there. and another for curing another disease . and under the root there was a precious stone. One time. he would crawl forward a ways. the likes of which he had not eaten before. It was square.
and saw written there. that splits into several roads. and was healed immediately. And he went and took dust from each of the roads. go to that place. upon which walk righteous ones who accept suffering upon themselves. he looked on another side of the stone." And the sun listened to all his words. And there is a road of the insane. One is a road of the righteous. So that every step he takes. In the midst of this. And there is a road of the blasphemers. And the wicked ones lead them in chains. he treads upon that dust. and made clumps from each type of dust the dust of the road of the righteous in one clump. they spread under him the dust from that road. and your feet will be healed.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN power from my feet. with his every step. that one who grasps that side. with every step they spread under him the dust of that road. where there is much of that dust. Even a blasphemer from here. being that the dust is plentiful here) with every step takes. There is a road. Even the righteous of this place (who one would think would not need this done. would be taken to the place of the road that splits into several. And so there are several such roads. and they have no power in their feet. they spread the dust as described before. and they receive power in their feet. Even an insane one from here. And I have a dust which can heal my feet. The moon answered. Then dust from that road is spread under their feet. and was transported there. and 28 . Therefore. And there is another road. "Is that all you are worried about? I'll tell you of a cure. and because of this I do not have power in my feet. But the wind comes and takes it away. So he grasped that side. and began to walk on the road with the dust that brings healing to the feet.
"It was because of you that we stole!". So another group was sent. So he went himself. Until the son realized that there was no one left alive except the leader of the thieves. And the head thief sent out several of his men to go and steal. He took the dust of the righteous and the dust of the insane. and immediately upon treading that road (where was sprinkled the dust of the righteous). Now. and the one he accused replied. and had murdered several people. and returned to the same forest where they had robbed him. they immediately became righteous. He came upon a plan. he chose a tall tree which was close to the road from which the thieves would start when they went to steal. and began to cry for their souls. and took them with him. that they had stolen until now. they became insane righteous. the dust of the insane. He made each into a separate clump. and waited to see what would happen to them. and sprinkled the dust of the righteous alone. and not one had returned to him. and mixed it together. Once there. And so the next time as well. the leader of the thieves was amazed that he had sent all his followers. But since there was mixed into this dust. and so on. until they murdered each other. Then he went and sat up in the tree again. and swept the magic dust off of the road. This one said. that he had murdered so many 29 . and when they came to this road and stepped on the dust. Then he climbed up the tree. and the same happened. and spread it out on the road. "But it was by means of you that we stole!". So he came down from the tree. until they were all murdered. and one other. with the other who had remained with him.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN likewise the varieties of dust from each of the roads. and began to argue with each other. he became a righteous man. He began to wail to his friend for his soul.
one would recount how he had hurt a baby. and he went with him to the town. and myriads upon myriads of families of devils. `I am the one who made that announcement. "Give me back the chest that you took from me (for they had kept a written account of every robbery. and stolen from so many. and they are very numerous. And when the son saw that he regretted and repented so deeply. that due to the many murders he had committed. he came down from the tree. and saw that were many thousands upon thousands. the likes of which no mortal man would sit on. and was very regretful. And they judged in that town. the son decided to go to the two thousand mountains mentioned before. and he did as he had been told. and returned in complete penitence. give me a way to repent!" The son answered him. "Oh. 30 . Aha. and other similar ridicule.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN people. and announce. yet another how he had damaged a foot. and murdered and robbed from many souls.' That is your repentance. that people should see and be warned." So the thief gave him all his treasures. he stood far off from the two thousand mountains. Afterwards. For they multiply as do people. the day it occurred. another how he had hurt someone's hand. He observed that they were engaged in ridicule ." The thief answered. he should be hung. to see what was happening there. "Your repentance is simply to go back to the town. and from who they had robbed). And when the thief saw that he had found a man. He began unearthing graves. I'll even give you all the hordes of goods I stole. When he came. And he saw their king sitting on a throne. and drew many people to thievery. "I'll return it immediately. Just give me a way to repent." The son answered. mercy on my soul! Such and such things I did. he began to cry.
he was not able to do me any harm. he was alone). But then came the king whose province the island was in. "There was one among us who did not have any power. "I will explain. The king said "Return the king's power to him!" He answered. and he told his story to the king. and he set down foundations. but they could not help him. and that had been our place. "But he became a cloud. He answered them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN In the midst of this. so we went and took away his power. and tortured him severely. the parents brought their son's friend to the king. So they sent a messenger to get him. And now it had been a long time. So he began to go to sorcerers. He asked them. "Why are you crying?" They answered that they have a son. Thus. they happened to meet one who had often been together with their son (however now. and he commanded to send messengers all over the world to find him. and he would come back at the same time each day. and he caught him. and he had not returned. he noticed a father and mother walking along and crying. "Take the power away from him and return it to the king. so we gave the king's power to him. "Why are you crying?" So they recounted the story. and wanted to build buildings there. and it was his habit to go out on his own. He went to many doctors. So they brought the couple to the king." So the king said they should summon the cloud and bring him here. There was an island in the sea. And my friend (the son of the devils who was lost) said to me that we should hurt the king. but my family he did not know." Upon hearing this." The king said. And as they were returning." He answered the king. and he asked them. 31 . And one of those sorcerers knew his family. But his family he knew.
and the emperor of the country was an atheist. how one of these people can become a cloud. He uttered another name. one of the holy names of the L-rd). which was also not favorable to him. said. who at the beginning was unable to walk. This desert did not find favor in his eyes. in this place there had never been a cloud. So it left the place. and he brought the whole country to become unbelievers. to listen to what they were saying. the messenger went and called the cloud." So he followed the messenger. "How did you come to be a cloud here?" The other answered him. so that no one could come near them. "Let me tell you a story. "You see that the Emperor is an unbeliever. "To the contrary. Then the wise man called together his whole family. "Why has this cloud covered up this town so completely?" They answered. He heard the messenger ask.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Now the son. which he found favorable. "I will go to see this thing." Meanwhile. and brought them to another desert. so he uttered another name. and even a few from our family have also become unbelievers. and brought them to another desert. in order to preserve our faith in the L-rd. And this desert was adjacent to the two thousand mountains. Then the wise man uttered a name (that is. may He be blessed. And the son decided to follow them." They agreed with the plan. The wise man went and drew a circle around his family. and asked the people of the town. and now for some time this cloud has covered us. and came to the town where the cloud was." "One time there was a wise man. Thus. we are going to retreat to the desert. and has drawn the whole country after him. and brought them instantly to the desert. and said to them. 32 . and who came here and saw all this.
that if it were to be watered. and everyone is merry. "There are gossipers among us. and his heart swelled with vanity. as described above. and another tells some other like story. This develops into war. they boast of all their mischief before him. Therefore." The one listening to the story asked. and he became very merry. a new king was declared. there are guards there from among our people. they stand guard and dig constantly. who stand night and day. and these gossipers go and create conflict between our king and another king. and ran to the tree to uproot it completely. One time. But when he approaches the tree. and then water can come to the tree. and went out wandering with his nobles. he goes and wanders about with his nobles. And he gathers up all his power of will to uproot the tree. And when a new king arises among us. And therefore. And as the king becomes more lighthearted. digging around the tree and preventing water from reaching it. and then fear falls upon him and he turns back. When 33 . and they performed all their mockeries before him. This one tells of how he hurt a baby. and how the mother is grieving over it. there would not remain a trace of the devils. it would be very good for us. For without this tree. And he girded his resolve powerfully. "Why do they stand there night and day? Wouldn't digging one time be enough to prevent the water flowing in?" The teller of the story answered. and so many other similar mockeries. and tries by himself to uproot the tree. and the trenches that were dug collapse. and he boasted he would uproot the tree entirely.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And there is a tree. which causes an earthquake. it screams fiercely.
THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN he arrived. with loud thunderings. But he responded. you will become afraid of me. they became afraid. He asked the wise man to let him in. I will allow one other to come in with you. When the wise man's people saw them. On his way. "Who is to say it is your place? It is my place!" The king said. And he wanted to swallow the wise man. if I want. because of the circle the wise man had drawn around them. "Even so. The wise man responded. they came in. as high as the heavens. they could not reach them. All the king's nobles were killed. he looked and noticed some men sitting (they were the wise man and his people). I will let you in. The king now asked. and then he closed the circle again. the tree let out a great scream. I am not afraid at all. but he also could not come near them. and he became a great stormcloud. "How did you come to settle in my place?" Answered the wise man. and he sent some of his men to abuse them. "Are you not afraid of me?" And he extended himself and became very large. Then he became very angry and returned. as was his custom always. So he flew into a rage. 34 ." And when the devils came near to them. and he turned back. "Are you not afraid of me?" He answered "No!" Then the king repeated. and only he and the companion that came into the circle with him remained. "Do not fear. and they could not either. and went himself. And the wise man said to them. and the thunder killed his men. and then it stopped. The king begged for the thunder to stop. "Since you ask." So he went and prayed a bit. and fear fell on him. And since it is not honorable that the king should go unescorted. So the king sent other men." He opened an entrance for them. However.
as the wise man had commanded. "Because you are such a unique man. even so." So he passed away. and even that they do not know completely. But he had faith in the L-rd. Even if there be found among you. make use of 35 . saying: "I leave you with this book." And he sent the companion who came with him to go and bring the book (so it turned out to be a wise choice to let one companion enter with the king. Even when a new child would be born. He opened it. Later on. Then the king promised him that they would never do harm to his family. one who is able to use it in holiness. do not use it. and saw written there thousands upon thousands of devil families. he called together his children and commanded them. and nevertheless I do not use it. for if he had entered alone. Even the newly born are on record with the king. they should immediately bring him the child's portrait. I will give you a book with all the families. You see that I have the power to use this book in holiness. and he did not use it. For there are spiritual masters who only know of one family. may He be blessed. He had the power to use it in holiness.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The king now said to him. and you can neither support them or marry them off. I will give you a book with all the families of the devils. for the king has the list with all the names. He commanded to be brought the portraits of every member of his family. Neither should you use it. In order that no one from the wise man's family would ever be harmed. when the wise man reached his time to pass on from the world. I simply put my trust in the L-rd. and the book was handed down. and came to his grandson. and rather trust in the L-rd. And the gossipers among them tried to tempt the grandson: "Seeing that you have mature daughters. who would have gone after the book?) And he brought the book to him. may He be blessed.
" So he commanded me to be a cloud there. and from medicines he is still to take. and then the missing son of the devil couple came back. so that the king would have healing from the medicines he already took. and thought that his own heart was advising him thus. for they had tormented him exceedingly there. And the grandson had no awareness of all this. He was in a broken state. "Seeing that the grandson has the power to use the book. But now my heart is drawing me to use it. 36 ." The deceased wise man answered him. There came a time. So they did. we will do him a favor. Then our king said. So the king commanded that the Jews pray for him. medical treatments were not effective. and asked him. He was burning with resentment at the sorcerer who had tormented him so. better that you have faith in the L-rd and not use it. "Seeing that you commanded in your will that we not use the book. He went to doctors. and instead to have faith in the L-rd." Now the son from the beginning of the story (who did not have power in his legs to walk). without strength. when the king of the country (wherein lived the grandson). For because of the intense heat of that country. had been following after these two and listening. and yet he chooses not to use it.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN the book. He then travelled to the grave of his ancestor. It was because of this that I became a cloud here (All this was from the story that the cloud recounted to the messenger). Then they came to the king of the devils." And so he did. and the Lrd will help you. became ill." And he did not know they were trying to tempt him. "Even though you have the power to use the book in holiness. but they could not heal him. and the king commanded that they return the power to the other king.
So the king executed the gossipers. and called on other sorcerers who were familiar with the devil families. The family of the son went and spoke slander about the gossipers to the king. and it was as if they had never been. Through this was caused an earthquake. poverty. And there developed among the devils famine. for they were waiting to harm him. and the tree was totally watered. So they went and created dissension between all the kings. 37 . and the earth fell entirely. But there were gossipers among them. and war broke out between all the kings. that the family of the son and some of the gossipers served together on a shift guarding the king. in order to be protected. bloodshed and plague. that they had revealed his secret. and their remaining friends were enraged. So he devised a scheme. And there remained nothing from the devils. And the the son and his family were enraged at these gossipers. and they went and told the sorcerer to beware. One time it happened.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and he commanded his sons and family that they should forever be haunting that sorcerer. Amen.
he would be expelled from the country. if the country will be without a king. the people will swallow each other alive. they spoke against him." Therefore. "Why. and conspired to overthrow him and to obliterate him and his descendants. and left in poverty. Now. And because he ruled over his ministers with severity. Then the king went and probed to see if the matter was true. He conquered several states. and had great wisdom.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE KING WHO DECREED ANNIHILATION (A Story of Miracles) Once there was a king who forced expulsion upon his country. but in public they were not allowed to behave as Jews. In private. and his son became king. For a state cannot exist without a king. He went and told the king that they were conspiring against him as described. Anyone who wanted to remain in the country would have to recant his faith. And there was among the ministers one of the persecuted people. in order to retain their faith and remain Jewish. through a decree of annihilation. And some of them were not willing to sacrifice their belongings and wealth. after all. so they stayed there in a state of persecution. and if he did not. On the night that the ministers made their attempt 38 . Some of them gave up all their belongings and wealth. The first king passed away. did I stay here under persecution? Because I valued my wealth and possessions. they practiced the Jewish faith. he decided to go and inform the king without their knowing. And he began to rule the country with an iron fist. He reasoned to himself. So he stationed guards. and he saw that it was.
in order that his seed not be cut off. each one according to his case. "Swear to me. They wrote this down in their book of annals. and he passed away. you already are one. for in all his kingdom. After this. Therefore. and his son became king." At this the king was very annoyed. you are wealthy already. the minister donned his tallis and tefillin publicly. to don a tallis and tefillin in public. They told him that his seed would not be cut off as long as he guarded himself from a bull and a sheep. with gentleness. "But will you really fulfill my request?" The king answered yes. "My main honor would be that I be permitted to be Jewish in public. The minister said. He began to rule with gentleness. But he did not have any other choice because he had sworn. Then his son became king. Then the minister said. and I will grant it to you. He conquered many nations. and came upon an idea: He commanded to be announced that there should not be found in his kingdom any bulls or sheep. no one was allowed to be Jewish. and he began to rule with severity. for he saw how they had wanted to wipe out his father. for having saved me and my descendants? If I thought to make you a minister . Tell me what honor you would like." The minister asked. The king asked the persecuted minister. In the morning. as had his grandfather. he had nothing to fear.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN against the king.well. And he commanded his sons that they also rule in the same manner as he. He gathered together all the astrologers to tell him by what thing his seed could be cut off. in order that he guard himself from it. and he had very great wisdom. they were caught. If I were to give you riches. the king passed away." So he did. He conquered many states. 39 . "What honor can I bestow upon you. and judged.
Even those who had had posts with his grandfather's grandfather. and became great in wisdom. the limb would light up and shine. When some person needed advice. the world is divided into seven parts. And he would focus on the question of whether he should do this business or not. All of the seven metals were included within him. and took away their posts. The king came up with an idea. each one shining on one of the seven regions. When it was appropriate for him to do it. that is. And he cast them down. how to conquer the world without war. Through this the king conquered the whole world. and gathered great wealth. he would stand next to the limb made of the metal that was native to his region. his torso of silver. and all the seven bright stars shined upon this man. But this statue only had this ability with the condition that the king would cast down the haughty and raise up the lowly. and if not. For there are seven regions of the world. it would remain darkened. and every one of the seven stars shines on one of these metals. which are made of gold and which hang in their palaces. he took their posts away. And he went and gathered all seven types of metals. or to know whether to commence some business or not. And there are seven varieties of metals. and commanded to be brought the portraits of all the kings. And he made from all of these a man. and they all came. His head was of gold. And there are seven shooting stars. and so all the other limbs were of other metals. They positioned him on top of a high mountain. So he sent out invitations to all the generals and other ministers with high-ranking posts and honors. And he raised up lowly ones and appointed 40 .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN He ruled the country with a strong hand.
He became very distraught. 41 . his children and all his family. And he saw that the bull and the sheep. he is saved from the fear. Among the ones that the king sought to cast down was the Jewish minister described before. that there are three hundred and sixty five courses of the sun. his seed would be cut off. an angel of destruction is created. "My position is that I be allowed to be Jewish in public. and none of their interpretations satisfied him. For through anger. A great fear befell him. He saw written there that through a bull and a sheep. the king went to sleep and dreamed that he saw a clear sky. Then one wise man came to him. That is. and he returned to his persecuted position. A terrible fear befell him. and there is a place where all the three hundred sixty five courses shine there. and each one interpreted differently. if he comes to this staff. and someone who suffers from fear. which were among the signs." And he took this away from him. One time. in return for the favor that I did for your grandfather. and was very frightened. and he called to all his dream interpreters. And there grows a staff of iron. "What is your position and appointment?" He answered. and with the wise man who had informed him about it. He awoke in great anger. And he related this to the queen. there stands an angel who is appointed over anger. and he commanded them to bring him the book of annals. and saw all the twelve signs of the Zodiac. and told him he had a tradition from his father. were laughing at him. and there fell also upon her and on their children a great fear. Along the way.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN them in their place. So he went to that place with his wife. This found favor in the eyes of the king. The king asked him.
When the wise man came back to his home. go. for he had a tradition from his father that there is such a fire there. being that other kings were going through the fire. So how could it be that he and his seed were destroyed? Then the persecuted minister spoke up and said. For with the skin of a bull is made tefillin. and other various roads. "Since I have a tradition from my father that four miles from the fire. and did not understand what they saw. and he saw that walking through it were kings and Jews wearing tallis and tefillin. For the astrologers saw. and so they went there. "I have the tradition handed down from my father. and from the wool of a sheep are 42 . and one filled with mud. he saw the fire. I would rather not come any closer. Therefore those kings were able to pass through the fire." But the king thought to himself." So the king and his family went. and he and his seed were entirely cut off. and the fire consumed them. If you want to go. and he directed them to the road with the fire). four miles from which one is burned (and the king and his people asked him the way. The wise man said to the king.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and this angel is appointed over all the destructive forces. he would try it as well. And there is one road. and one filled with imperfections and potholes. For the king had been protected from the bull and the sheep. For there is a straight path before a man. The wise man kept looking ahead to see whether they were coming to this fire. "It was through me that he was cut off. in which is a fire. Presently. etc. And those who travel there ask him the way. This was because in the countries of those kings dwelled Jews. Therefore I do not want to go. the ministers were dumbfounded. one is burned up. The wise man answered him.
And that is why the bull and the sheep within the Zodiac were laughing at him. because in his country Jews wearing tallis and tefillin were not allowed to live.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN made the fringes of a talit. and it was through them that he and his seed were cut off. and so he and his seed were cut off. went through the fire with no harm at all. And our king was cut off. 43 . for the seers of the Zodiac saw but did not know what they saw. who wore tallis and tefillin. For those kings in whose countries Jews lived.
They informed the king. I ask you peaceably to pray for me that I should have children. He went and sought help from doctors. so that his kingdom would not fall into the hands of strangers. The king began to speak to him in a tone of good will: "You know that the Jews are in my hand. And they began searching for the same tzaddik. to do with them as I please. And the Jews searched for a Tzaddik who would pray and cause him to have children. and the queen gave birth to a daughter. the king started to yearn greatly for a son. who was of a very beautiful appearance. so that his kingdom would not pass on to a stranger. 44 . and the king was very joyous. could play musical instruments. that he would have children. After a time. So he again decreed upon the Jews. Already at the age of four. Then he returned to his place. she already knew all the wisdoms. Therefore." And he promised the king that he would have a child within a year. for he had already passed away. But he answered that he did not know anything. So they searched more. and he was brought to the king. and they could not find him. and found another hidden tzaddik. but it did not help. And he decreed upon the Jews to pray for him. Kings from all the countries would travel to see her. and knew all the languages. that they should pray for him to have a son.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE PRINCE WHO WAS MADE OF PRECIOUS STONES There was once a king who had no children. and told him to pray that the king should have children. They searched and found a hidden tzaddik. and he sent a summons to the tzaddik.
he was very beautiful. He said 45 . He also said that he did not know anything. Then she saw there a precious stone. and half to the queen. and he cut his finger. and gave half the cup to the king to drink. She had one consolation: That the tzaddik had said he would be made entirely of precious stones. and several doctors came. It was good that he was not made of precious stones. and the tzaddik took them and crushed them. and the princess wanted to bandage the finger.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and told him to give the king a son. And the princess saw that she was no longer so important. "I will give you half my kingdom in order to have a son. "I need you to bring me all the varieties of precious stones. And there was among them one sorcerer. The queen gave birth to a son. She made as if she were sick. and very well-versed in all the wisdoms." For the kings have a book in which is written all the varieties of precious stones. "Will you do what I tell you?" The king said "Yes. and became very jealous of him. and she asked him if he could cast a spell on a man to make him leprous. But the son was not made of precious stones. and the king was filled with joy. The tzaddik said to him. One time the prince was cutting wood. and he would have all the powers of all the stones." The tzaddik said. and the king said to him again as before: "You know that the Jews are in my hand". to whom the truth was revealed -that she was pretending to be sick. For each stone has a different power. Then he took a cup of wine. and knew all the languages. and was jealous of him. etc. And he told them that they would have a son who would be made entirely of precious stones. and kings would travel to see him. When he was four years old. The king said. So they informed the king. but they could not heal her." He went and brought all kinds of precious stones. and put the crushed stones in it. So they called on sorcerers. And he went to his place.
Then the tzaddik told them that now the prince would be healed. and ran to the sea to retrieve the spell from the water. for she knew where it was hidden. and all his skin peeled off and fell from him. in order that my son be healed. The king said.) 46 . it has not come to pass as I said it would. they will not be able to annul it anymore." So she did thus. He had leprosy on his nose. but it did not help. after his skin peeled off." And the tzaddik came to the king. and cast the spell into the sea. And now. "I will hand over all sorcerers. A great commotion arose due to the falling of the princess into the sea. and the only hope for the prince would be for the sorcerer who had cast it to be thrown into the sea. He would argue with the L-rd. who would annul the spell and heal him?" The sorcerer said. So it was: He was healed. on his face. "If the spell will be cast into the sea. and they searched for the tzaddik and brought him to the king.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "yes". and the leprosy dried up. and that they had thrown the spell into the sea. And this tzaddik was higher than all sorcery. to be thrown into the sea. And he informed the king that this was sorcery. and the prince became very leprous. and it had not come to pass. And the king went to doctors and sorcerers. And she fell into the water. She continued. So the king decreed upon the Jews to pray. just as the tzaddik had said. "Did I do this to glorify myself? I only did it to glorify You. and on the rest of his body. And this tzaddik had been praying always to Blessed L-rd. in that he had promised to the king that the child would be entirely of precious stones." And the princess became afraid. "But what if they find another sorcerer. but to no avail. He had all the benefits of all the stones. it was revealed and apparent that the prince really was made of precious stones. and he prayed. and he was made totally of precious stones. (That is to say.
and there is only one narrow path crossing them. I do not know if this is true. that he would need to know the nature of the country. Therefore. And there cannons are also positioned. For when one wants to know about a certain thing. "I was only joking. 47 . Said the king to the advisor: "There is a king who publicizes himself as a mighty one. and when the other accuses him. there are swamps encircling the country. There are cases in which a person truly wants to hurt another. wide enough only for one to pass. and a humble man of truth. So the wise man went to the country. And so there are various other types of humor. He thought to himself." For the king had the portraits of all the rulers. That he is mighty. I would like you to bring me his portrait.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE HUMBLE KING Once there was a king who had a wise advisor. And how would he find out the nature of the country? By knowing its humor. I can tell. Because his country is surrounded by the sea. they fire the cannons on him. For there are several types of humor. And further in. For he is hidden from people. and is distanced from the people of his country. his friend is hurt by his words. but the portrait of this one cannot be found with any king. he claims. and when one comes in attack. However. his claim that he is a man of truth and humility. and on the sea stand a fleet of ships with cannons. and even so. one needs to know the humor of that thing." Then there are cases in which a person truly only intends to joke. so it is impossible to come close. and they do not allow anyone to come close. for he dwells behind a veil.
48 . And how one's case can go to the higher courts. and saw that they were expressing a variety of mockery and humor. etc. And they showed all these things through play-acting. from beginning to end. He went and did business dealings in the country. and it was also full of falsehood. and the next day they would not even recognize him. and allowed himself to be swindled in business. The wise man understood from all these parodies that the country was full of falsehood and deception. where all is falsehood and bribery. So the wise man took a great deal of money with him. And within that nation is a city which encompasses all the cities of the nation which encompasses all the nations. and they also were full of falsehood and bribery. and how one comes to be judged in court. and went there. and there is found a man who encompasses all the men of that house. For he saw that some of their humor centered around how to cheat and deceive people in business. And there is there one who expresses all the mockery and humor of the whole nation. And within that city is a house which encompasses all the houses of that city which encompasses all the cities of the nation which encompasses all the nations. Until he came to the Supreme Court. One day he would bribe them. and there was not there a bit of truth. and they were full of falsehood and bribery. And he understood from the humor of the country that the country was filled with falsehood.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And there is among all the nations one nation that encompasses all the nations. where there also all is false. Then he went to a higher court. until he came to the king himself. And he took his case to the courts.
the smaller and more humble he becomes. Thus he revealed his face." And he started to praise the king exceedingly. he asked. "Over who are you King?! Your country is full of lies. I see that you are a man of truth. and he continued to recount all the falsehood of the country. And the king. Then the wise man added. and flung open the veil. because of the magnitude of the praise of the wise man. to see who is this who knows and understands all this. and he brought his portrait to his king. you are far from them. from beginning to end. For it was a wonder to the king to find a man who knew of all the falsehood of the country. For such is the way of the humble: The more he is praised and glorified. 49 . he pressed his ear against the veil in order to hear better. So. because you cannot bear the falsehood of the country. until he practically disappeared. to see the wise man. and because of that." And he began to recount all the falsehood of the country. with which he praised and glorified the king. the king came to extreme humility and smallness.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN When he came to the king. But in fact. liking falsehood along with all the others. "And it would be fitting to say that the king is also like them. and his humility was his greatness. And the ministers that heard his words were enraged. and the wise man saw him. and there is not a shred of truth in it. And he could not restrain himself. When the king heard his words. because he was very humble.
as if it was turning back entirely and no longer had interest in the fly. And to whatever page one opened. Then the King commanded to be brought the book wherein were written all the customs and behavior of each nation. Once there was a king. and took many hostages. So it turned back. you will understand. a wind came and raised the page up from the book. And they performed comic plays.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE FLY AND THE SPIDER He said: I will tell you of all the journey I passed through. And as the spider crawled and came closer to the fly. For it can be assumed that those who performed the comedies also saw the book. on the anniversary of his victory. and the spider could not reach the fly. and it can be assumed that they also parodied the Jews. "Because you ask me to tell you everything. and there were present all the ministers of the kingdom. According to the simplest assumption. one would see written there the customs and behavior of a nation. he saw there a spider crawling on the tips of the pages. the spider was headed toward the fly. he said in this language. and acted with deception. and in them they made light of all the nations. very similar to the plays of the comedians.") The king held a great banquet every year. and they mimicked and parodied the customs and behavior of every nation. 50 . as he started to tell this story. who waged several heavy wars and won them. and on the other side of the book stood a fly. and all the nobles of the land. The Arabs. and all the other nations. And as the king looked at the book. as is the custom of kings. (Within his words.
After that. and it crawled and went on until it managed to get one foot on the page. in the space between two pages. Then the page rose. Now it is the custom of kings that they display their portraits near them. Then he dreamed that he had in his hand a precious gem. until the spider was left under it. It crawled about there. Then the page rose again. until nothing was left of it. but now the spider was partly on the page. and afterwards. and was awed by it.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The page returned to its place. and he began to shout. and they could not do a thing to him. And so it went several times. As he looked at it. Then they left him. but that it was meant to tell him something. And upon the portrait they fasten their crowns. What does this mean?. After this.) The king saw all this. and it protected him. Again they came at him to kill him. I will not tell you what became of it. And these people were running toward the king to kill him. and it remained far down. And so it went several times. the page returned to its place. which people's customs were written on it. and the spider again began to edge toward the fly.) He began to ruminate. And he lifted up a page from the book on which he had been sleeping. And these people who were emerging from the gem were seizing the portrait and cutting off its head. and it turned back again. "What a shame! What a shame!" Then all the 51 . and he flung the stone out of his hand. (And all the ministers noticed that he was staring and awed by this. again preventing it from reaching the fly. the spider again attempted to reach the fly. and he lifted the page up again. they grabbed the crown and cast it into a heap of garbage (all this was within the dream of the king). and understood that this was not an empty thing. (And as for the fly. he saw tiny deformed people emerging from it. He was afraid to look. and he dozed off over the book. Then the page came to rest entirely. And he longed to see which page was protecting him.
it was impossible to read the writing. And so with each of the divisions. "Should I not cry out. there was a tablet on which was written. you do not need to worry about anything." The mountain answered. nothing at all. However. or in a carriage. Only at the bottom. They banged on the surfaces in the area nearby him. when they are coming to kill me? Only this page protected me. Anyone who passed there. "If that page is protecting you. or on horseback. Whether he went on foot. "Why are you shouting so? I have been sleeping such a long time. because of the great height of the mountain. However it is not appropriate to wake the king. but he did not hear. there was a stone tablet. all his teeth would fall out. 52 . feasting and making merry. In the midst of this. with music etc. that he who has all his teeth intact may climb up the mountain. Come and I will show you." Now. all his teeth would fall out. like mountains. also protects me. and asked him. and they wanted to wake him. And there were piles and piles of teeth there. And then they would have a big celebration and feast. and nothing woke me. For also against me many enemies arise. on the top of the mountain. on which was written to whom belonged the customs on the page that protected him. only that this page protects me. making music with instruments and dancing."Only that this page with the customs that protects you. And their main happiness centered around the occasions one of their divisions came up with an idea how to ascend the mountain.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN ministers that were sitting there heard. And the Holy One Blessed be He caused a certain grass to grow at the spot where one needed to pass to climb the mountain." So he showed him that around the mountain stood myriads of enemies. And now you woke me?" The king responded. a high mountain came to him.
"In such and such a place there is such a man. The man answered." The king thought to himself. He began to look at the page with an eye of truth. to the truth? He decided that he would set out and travel in search of a wise man who could interpret his dream. He began to see even what had been done with him before his birth. He took two people with him. the people who had come out of the gem." And so when the day came. However. what he would like to see and know. and then I gather up all the spices of the incense and compound a specific blend." So he went there. and perceived the essence of the truth. on a certain day. when his soul had 53 . "Where can be found a wise man who would interpret a dream according to its real meaning?" They told him. in a certain month. how would he bring everyone else to the good. how he was a king that had won many wars.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Afterwards. and immediately looked to see which page had protected him. Then the king awoke. and that man chooses in his mind. there is a certain moment. And he saw written there the customs of Israel. but rather as a simple man. And he concluded to himself. And then he will know it all. that he would certainly convert to Judaism. I will wait until that day in that month. The real question was. and asked. and they took and washed off the crown. and came to the man. which customs from which people were on it. and country to country. and smoked him with the incense. And he asked him to interpret his dream. and I smoke a man in this incense. "I myself cannot interpret it. the wise man did as described. and all the above story. He went from city to city. and travelled through the world not in the fashion of a king. and then put it in its place. came back and stood the portrait in its original position. and told him the truth. "Seeing that I have already expended so much time on this.
still had not arrived. The soul may now descend to the world. etc. Just then. until they brought him to the Upper Court. and cried out. And the one mentioned before (the Evil One). How he was made a king. it was not written clearly as it had been told. And on that mountain no one is able to ascend." So he left. then why did You create me?" (The one who cried these words was the Evil One). and it had all types of grace." And no one there had a charge against him. what more will there be for me to do? And if nothing. from beginning to end. And they continued to lead the soul through the worlds.) 54 . You will have to find your own solution. etc." And he saw all that he had been through. Then he appeared with an elderly man. without question.) More than this he did not say. (And he took captives. He saw that they were leading his soul through all the worlds. who had all of the graces of the world. "This soul must come down to the world. Rather. and among them was a beautiful woman. "I have already found myself a solution. So they sent a messenger after him. and there is much more to this. And they announced. If this soul comes into the world. who was stooped over in the way of the elderly. The Evil One had already been acquainted with him. to make him swear that he would descend to the world. and because of this it appeared that she had all these types of grace. (From the words "And he took captives" until the end. He laughed and said. "Whoever has a charge against this soul. Only that this grace was not hers. come forward.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN been in the Upper World. "Master of the World. and the wars he had fought. The answer came. listen to my prayer. she wore a precious gem. except for wise or rich men. one came running.
And he would constantly learn and pray. and again felt a lack. After a time. and he longed powerfully to fill the lack. And so it went several times. and he felt a lack. His father answered him: "What?! You want to travel to him? You are certainly more learned than he. he had one son. So he conferred again with the above-mentioned friends. So the son returned to his learning. and did not know why. and of better lineage. And therefore. And the son would sit in his room and study.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE RABBI AND HIS ONLY SON There once was a Rabbi. and they advised him to travel to a certain tzaddik. from which he merited to the aspect of the "Small Light". as was the custom for men. that seeing as he did not feel any taste in his learning. he felt in himself that he was lacking something. So he again approached his father. and pleaded with him. and his father dissuaded him from going as before. 55 . and did not know what. He did not feel enthusiasm in his learning and in his prayer. he wanted to travel to the Tzaddik. being that he was his only son. who he raised and married off. And the son felt this lacking. and did not know what it was. However. And he came again to his father. And this son had done a mitzva. And he explained this to two friends." Until he dissuaded him from going. who did not have any children. give up the idea. until his father was compelled to take him . and they advised him as before to travel to the tzaddik.for he did not want to let him travel alone. And this Only Son went and told his father. It's not fitting for you to travel to him.
that both axles should break?" For they had travelled many times in this carriage. then it is not from Heaven. and the likes of this had never happened. he saw the lacking that he could not explain. And when they went. And it was. it is decreed from Heaven (that you should go). If not. His father said. and he was obliged to travel with him again. One of the horses fell. Barring only a truly unusual occurrence. and they were nearly drowned. His father said. it isn't working out for us to make the trip. "You see. And again." And they travelled and came to a small bridge. and found there a trader. For could this be natural. So they set out and came to an inn. and I'll show you that he is nothing special. And the son returned to his studies. "I will set up a test: If things proceed normally. And they did not reveal to him their destination. so the trip is not ordained from Heaven. "Alright. or an axle breaks. So the son returned to his routine. and we will turn back. for it is natural that sometimes a horse falls. as they were travelling. and his friends again advised him to go. and again felt the lack. and started to converse with him in the manner of traders. "You see. that both axles of the carriage broke. And they spoke about worldly 56 ." So they prepared a carriage and set off. So again he pleaded with his father.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And his father said. So he pleaded with his father again. And the son asked that they not set up this test again." So they returned. things are not proceeding normally. His father said. I will go with you. for the Rabbi was embarrassed to reveal that they were visiting that tzaddik. the father again set up the test as he had the first time. and the carriage overturned. and his father agreed to travel with him a second time.
For I just came from his place. "Certainly you saw me." So the father said to his son. "You see? This trader told us this in his innocence. until the conversation turned to stories of tzaddikim. I will swallow you!" The father asked." He then awoke. and that "he will tell you why I am so angry. "Do you remember. The second time. and where they are located. and he asked him: "Why are you so angry?" He answered that he should travel to that same tzaddik to whom they had tried to travel before. and again he assumed it was an insignificant dream. And this son passed away. And along the way." Then he opened his mouth and said. "What are you saying?!" He answered. And they started to speak about the tzaddik to whom they were travelling. the horse fell on the bridge. when you and your son travelled? And at the beginning." Then he dreamed the dream again. He answered them. He recognized him. "If you like. "In such and such a place is a tzaddik. and the third time you met me. and now he realized there was meaning in it. and in another place. And his father saw that he was very angry. I was there. and another" and so on. and you turned back. And I said that he (the tzaddik) is a lightweight. 57 . And he came in a dream to the Rabbi. He dreamed it yet a third time. and he just came from there!" So they returned home. and said.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN matters. he met the trader. the two axles broke. and I saw him commit a sin. "Him? He is a lightweight. "Are you the same trader that I met in that inn?" And he answered. So he travelled there. and said to himself. And he began to recount. his father. "It was only a dream.
And if they had come together. alas to those who are lost and cannot be forgotten!" The L-rd should return our exiles speedily. and cried." And as he was speaking. 58 . now you may travel there. So he travelled to the tzaddik. For your son was the aspect of the Small Light. he disappeared. alas. and the father was left alone.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And now that I have ended your son's life. "Alas. you may travel there. And now that I have done away with your son. Amen. it would have brought the Messiah. and that tzaddik was the aspect of the Great Light.
And the sons began to grow up. "Where are you from?" They answered that they were from Warsaw. He spoke up and said to the tradesmen. the two householders began to lose their wealth. You will have to fend for yourselves. and he found favor with them. even so." The simple one went and learned shoemaking. He went and wandered through the market. They had large houses. only that his intellect was simple and of a low level). and each one of them had a son. As time passed. both of whom studied in the same classroom. "We do not have the ability to pay the expenses to support you. that was travelling along. So he travelled with them serving them very well along the way." He asked them. who had a sharp mind. they loved each other very much. So he decided to go out into the world and look for something to do. So the fathers said to their sons. In spite of their great difference in personality. until they became destitute. And the clever one. and were left with nothing except their houses. There he saw a large carriage with four horses and their harnesses.and the other was simple-minded (He was not foolish. 59 . and they accepted him. "Perhaps you need a helper?" They saw that he was intelligent and energetic. "And where are you going?" "To Warsaw. Now one of these sons was bright. who were very wealthy. These two sons loved each other very much.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE CLEVER AND THE SIMPLE ONE Once there were two householders in one city. did not desire to do mundane work like this. They sank further and further.
And as for their having brought him here. Then afterwards they reach the level of established servants. draping the garments along their arms' length for the customers to see. and also it was done in one's own home." So he went to the market. They answered that these people are upright. and it is good to be with them. 60 . His employer gave him hard work. and told them that he would not be continuing with them. He went and saw men from the clothing business. He had a sharp intellect. "Being that I am already in Warsaw.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN When they came to Warsaw. I will go and ask and see. He returned to the people he had come with. and he would send him to customers bearing merchandise as is customary for servants. he considered to himself. Sometimes he would need to climb up many flights with his load. gave them his respects. He went and started to work under one businessman. and if there are people better than them to work under. it is difficult to work with them because their dealings are done over great distances. and this work appealed to him because it had grace. that in the beginning they need to work for little pay. that were passing through the market in their fashionable style. he had served them along the way.their hats and their sharp-pointed shoes. They need to hold their arms upraised. since he was intelligent. in the way they walked and dressed. And it is the way of hired servants. and their other refinements. with their various adornments . why should I be tied to these people? Maybe there is something better. and do difficult work. However. and he began to investigate and ask about the people who had brought him. This work was very difficult for him to bear. and the work was very hard for him.
He found it fitting to learn to be a goldsmith. who knows if both of them might fall out of demand. He asked them. in different countries. perhaps in the future something else will take its place.for he was a highly intelligent philosopher: "Why should I do work like this? For truly. "Now it would be good to think about the goal. Because of his high intelligence and philosophical ability. and to have my fill of the world. he learned this also in a short time. it demands wisdom. In the meantime. Then he thought to himself. he did not need to learn several years." "Would you take me there?" "Yes. and because of his quick mind." So they took him there. Today this work is in demand. Afterwards." He went through the market. And I do not need to be concerned about this yet. with his philosophical analysis. I am happy to wander the land. and saw a large trading carriage passing by. and attractive. several years passed. it is not enough for me. and thus he became even wiser. 61 . "Where are you going?" "To Lagorna." He started to consider.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN So he considered to himself . and it is also very profitable. It is a major business. "Even though I now have this skill to depend on. and from there to Spain. in the years to come. a quarter of a year. I will have time to deal with it in the future. He was more expert in the work than the one who had taught him. In only a quarter of a year he completed his study and became a very major artisan. "Even though I have two trades. what he should do." So he went and found work with a gem cutter. Then he considered to himself. and from there he sailed to Italy. for he had been in many countries. In the course of this. the main point of working is to achieve the goal of getting married and supporting oneself. he speculated philosophically.
while he hit with his hammer. and suffered intensely along the way. the world began to seem insignificant in his eyes. and so his earnings were meager and limited. For because of his wisdom. "If I marry here. He began to think about fulfilling his goal and getting married. and how to write. and inserted 62 . And it is customary that before learning medicine. let us leave the story of the clever one for the time being. all the people in the world seemed insignificant to him. he had no one with whom to talk. that they will see what I have become." He concluded. which is always needed and important. and he had much suffering. he also learned this in a short time . and he lived off of his work.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Better that I learn a trade that will always be important. For because of his wisdom. one must learn Latin. who will know what became of me? I will go back to my family. he was not so talented in the work. The simple one learned the trade of shoemaking. He became a great doctor. And because of his understanding. and a philosopher learned in all the wisdoms. and he could not find lodgings according to his taste. Afterwards. and now I have come to such greatness!" So he went and travelled to his family's house.a quarter year. that he should learn to be a doctor. since he could not do the work skilfully. He did not even have time to eat. I was only a young man. because he had to work constantly. and the wisdoms of philosophy. and he was not fully expert even so. being so skilled and professional. So while he worked. Now. with his understanding and philosophy. He thought to himself. and we will start to tell the story of the simple one. But because he was simple. a wise man and a doctor. he learned a long time until he was able to accept work. He married a woman. Because he was simple.
When he needed to wear a suit to go in formal settings. he would say. saying how well prepared and good it was. "Give me honey!" She gave him water. And he would praise the quality of the beer. And he had the habit of being very happy all the time . because of his simplicity and great happiness. He would say. and he would eat. and he would praise it as before. all the drinks and all the clothing he wanted. he would snatch a bite of bread to eat. Then he would praise it: "How fine and tasty was that sauce!" And so he would command her to bring him meat and other fine foods. "My wife. give me the fur coat!" when he needed to wear a fur coat. give me to eat!" She would give him a piece of bread and he would eat. to go to the market. to go to the synagogue. "My wife. and he would enjoy and praise that beverage as if he were really drinking it. and so on. and he would delight in it and praise it: "How fine is this suit!" When he needed a caftan. He would praise each food extravagantly. he would say. "Give me wine!". he really tasted in the bread the taste of each food he wanted. "My wife. "Give me beans in sauce!" She would cut him another slice of bread. for example. Likewise he would command: "My wife. she gave him a slice of bread.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and drew out the thick thread in the way of shoemakers. He would say to his wife. he would 63 .he was filled with happiness always. give me beer to drink!" She would give him water. Each time she would give him water. and he delighted very much from it. for example. And so with clothing: He and his wife together shared one fur coat. as if he was eating the actual food. He had all the kinds of food. And she would give it to him. and in place of each item. After this. give me the suit!" She would give him the fur coat. In truth.
For the rest of the world. saying "My wife. Why should I complain with a profit like that?!" And he was only joyful and satisfied all the time. why do all the other shoemakers charge three gold pieces for a pair of shoes. I make a direct profit of ten gedolim. he would take the shoe in his hand and praise it highly. For he appeared a madman in their eyes. how beautiful and wonderful is this shoe! How sweet it is! This shoe is as sweet as honey and sugar!" Then she would ask him. and the other materials like those cost that much. she would also give him the fur coat. when he needed to wear a formal overcoat. "Just without mockery!" Immediately when they 64 . He would say. the filler costs that amount. and he would praise and delight in it as well: "How fine and beautiful is this overcoat". People would come to him. "If so. Before speaking with them. And he was always filled only with joy and satisfaction. When he would finish a shoe (and it can be assumed it had three ends. and they would engage him in conversation with the intent of mocking him. he would stipulate. this is mine!" And further: "Why must we talk about others? Why don't we make an estimate of how much direct profit I make from this shoe? The leather costs so much. saying "How fine is this caftan!" Similarly.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN command. Now. "What does it matter to me? That is his affair. give me the caftan!" And she would give him the fur coat. and would take great delight in it. cost such and such. and you take only a piece and a half?" He answered her. having found someone to deride according to their desire. and people satisfied their craving to mock through him. for he had not mastered the craft). however he was an object of ridicule. the tar and the laces etc. "My wife. and so on. and he would praise it.
and granted me to see you!" Now for the wise one. and their houses remained. what would that make you? You would still be fools.died while the clever one was wandering through the world. had moved into his father's house and inherited it. a great commotion arose. he drew him close. "If you were wiser than me. joyously asked after his welfare. The two householders mentioned at the beginning . Yet in spite of this. Now the clever one was travelling in a royal carriage in a high style. But the clever one. who had remained in his hometown. for that in itself would be a form of mockery. my dear friend! What are you doing here? Blessed is the One who brought you. he would accept their words and begin talking with them.it was all the more so with a man like this. with great joy. "Quick. The simple one ran like the others to greet him. I'm going to greet my beloved friend.) In the midst of this. and he ran to greet him. The simple one reached him and lovingly.the fathers of these two sons . because of the great love of their earlier years. he would say. who seemed like a lunatic. The simple one. to whom the whole world was insignificant. For he did not want to go any deeper into the matter and speculate about their intent. with great honor and wisdom." She handed him the fur coat. on the contrary. And when he saw that their intent was to mock. for who am I anyway? So if you were wiser than me. give me the overcoat.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN responded to him without mocking. "Brother. and he said to his wife. Now let us return to our first subject. you would be thought of as a fool!" (All this was a description of the simple one. and he was a simple man. who had 65 . and they travelled together through the city. that the clever one was on his way to visit here.
why don't you come and stay in my house? I will gather everything of mine into one corner. One nobleman came to him and asked him to make him a gold ring. had no one to claim it on his behalf. He asked the clever one to copy the image from the illlustrated stone onto the other one. a craftsman and a very great doctor. and was very pleased with 66 . in love and joy. because the inn was not according to his desire. and nothing was left of it at all. so he came to his house and stayed by him. And the simple one had found himself a new pastime ." This pleased the clever one. He had much suffering from this. another time. and it became abandoned. The noble came to take the stone. Now the clever one was constantly filled with agony. barring one mistake that no one else would be able to discern aside from himself. So the clever one did not have a place to stay upon coming to the town. for he himself knew. and he brought him another stone with an engraving. And he copied it exactly. He lodged in one inn. that came from far away. a highstanding noble came to him with an expensive precious stone. and suffered much there. And so.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN been abroad. and the rest of my house will be free for you to use. "My brother. He saw the suffering the clever one was enduring in the inn. and he engraved an image of a tree that was very impressive. it would be very honored and important. and he said to him.he would run back and forth from his house to the wise one. and engraved on it illlustrations with incredible workmanship. For it became known that he was a magnificently intelligent man. that if this ring with the tree would be seen in Spain. and was not at all pleased with the ring. The nobleman came. He made the man a very wondrous ring.
it. But the clever man suffered intensely from the mistake. "My wisdom is so great, and yet I made a mistake such as this!" Also from his work as a doctor he suffered. When he came to a sick person, and gave him a treatment, and he knew with certainty that if the man would only survive, he would be healed entirely, because the treatment was an amazing one. Then afterwards, if the man died, everyone would say he was at fault, and he suffered intensely from this. And thus, there were times when he treated a man and cured him, and everyone said, "It is just by chance." And he was constantly filled with suffering. One time he needed a garment, so he called upon a tailor, and toiled with him until he taught him to make the garment according to his desire, according to the style with which he was familiar. The tailor strived to make the garment according to his wishes, and succeeded with the exception of one lapel in which that he erred. The clever one suffered exceedingly from this, for he knew that although here it was attractive enough, for people here were not versed in fashion, if he were in Spain with that lapel, he would be the butt of jokes and he would be looked on as a clown. And so he was constantly filled with agony. And the simple one would run and come to him joyfully, all the time. He always found him pained and full of suffering. He asked him, "Someone so wise and wealthy as you, why are you suffering all the time? You see, I am filled with joy all the time." However, he appeared in the eyes of the clever man as a joke, and as a lunatic. And the simple one said to him, "You see, the average man who mocks me is a fool. For if he is wiser than me, then to the contrary, he is a fool. So all the
more so a clever man like you. What would you be if you were wiser than me?" Then the simple one said, "What would I not give for you to come to my level?" The clever one answered him, "That is possible, that I will come to your level, if I were to lose my intelligence, G-d forbid, or if I became sick, G-d forbid, and became insane. For what are you? A crazy man! But for you to come to my level, that is totally impossible - that you would become wise like me." The simple one answered him, "With the Holy One, Blessed be He, anything is possible. It could happen that within the wink of an eye I would come to your level." The clever one laughed at this a great deal. Now these two sons were known in the world as "the Clever One" and "the Simple One". Even though there are many clever and simple men in the world, in this case it was especially recognized. For both of them were from the same place, and they had learned together, and one of them had become awesome in intellect, and the other was an extremely simple person. And in the census book, in which were written all the names of the people of the nation, these two were identified as the Clever One and the Simple One. One time the King came upon the census book, and found written there the names of the two sons, one with the name "Clever One" and the other, "Simple One". And it was a wonder in his eyes, that these two were identified by these names, and he had a craving to meet them. He thought to himself, "If I send for them suddenly to come before me, they will be very frightened. The clever one will lose his clarity completely, and the simple one might possibly go crazy from fear." So he decided to send a clever messenger to the clever one, and a simple messenger to the simple one.
The only problem was how to find a simpleton in the capital city. For most of the people in the capital are sophisticated. Excepting the Treasurer, who is by intention a simpleton. For they do not appoint a clever man as treasurer, lest through his wisdom and intelligence, he comes to waste away the treasury. Therefore they specifically appoint a simpleton to be Treasurer. So the King called to a clever man and to the simpleton mentioned above, and sent them to the two sons of this story. And he gave to each messenger a letter. Also, he gave them letters addressed to the local governor of the province of the sons, and ordered the governor to send his own letters to them, so that they would not fear. He should explain to them that the matter is not urgent, and that the King is not commanding them to come, rather it is dependent on their own choice: If they want to come, they may. Only that the King desires to see them. These two messengers set out and travelled to the governor, giving him the letter. The governor asked to know more about the two sons. They told him that the clever one is incredibly bright, and very wealthy. And the simple one is exceedingly simple, and his whole wardrobe consists of one coat. The governor judged that it would not be fitting for the simple one to appear before the King in his old coat. So he provided him with appropriate clothes, and placed them inside the royal carriage of the simple messenger. And he gave the messengers letters, and they set off for the town of the two sons. They gave them the letters - the clever messenger to the clever son, and the simple to the simple. As soon as the simple one received his letter, he said to the messenger that brought
it, "I cannot read what is written there. Read it for me!" The messenger said, "I will tell you in brief what is written there: That the King wants you to come to him." The simple one said, "Just promise me that you're not joking!" He answered, "It is certainly the truth, and not a joke." And he immediately became filled with joy, and ran to his wife, saying, "My wife, the King has sent for me!" She asked, "Why, on what account?" But he did not have time to answer at all, and hurried joyfully and travelled with the messenger. He entered and sat inside the carriage and found the new clothes, and became more and more joyous. Meanwhile, news was passed on about the governor, that he had behaved corruptly. So the King removed him from office. The King considered and decided that the governor ought to be a simple man, who would govern the state with truth and uprightness, not knowing wisdoms and innovations. The King came to choose the simple son, and he sent a letter to the simple messenger, that the simple son was to become governor. His route of travel passed through the governor's city, so the King posted men at the gates of the city. As soon as he arrived, they were to detain him and crown him with the title of governor. So they did: They waited there, and as soon as he came, they detained him and informed him that he had been made governor. He asked them, saying, "Just promise you're not joking!" They answered that it was certainly not a joke. And he immediately became governor, with authority and might. Now that his fortune had turned, and a change of fortune brings wisdom, so he gained more understanding. Even so, he did not use his wisdom at all, but rather ruled with simplicity as
So he travelled there. rather ruled everything with simplicity as at first). The people loved him very much. for he saw that 71 . because he sent for you. And so he ruled all with the quality of truth. it is the way of the King to speak in a sophisticated fashion. And to rule a nation. even so. that it would be impossible for him to come to the clever one's level. And now he had already reached the other's wisdom (and even so. without any cleverness or deception. When two would come before him with a case to be judged. and the King was very pleased. "You are innocent and you are guilty". After this." The simple one found this agreeable. though he already knew much wisdom. and due to his love. one of them advised him: "Seeing that you will certainly have to come before the King . So. one does not need a high intelligence and cleverness. and you have no corruption in your ruling of the state. Thus even though you are very satisfactory. it would be good that I should teach you wisdoms and languages. because it is customary for the governors to appear before him. that he should come before him. and second. and to speak in other languages. according to his true simplicity. saying.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN at first. with truth and uprightness. and led the country simply. only simplicity and uprightness. the King sent for the simple one (who was now governor).first. he did not use it at all. Thus it would be appropriate and well-mannered for you to be able to respond. he would say. and had not a trace of corruption. The King started off talking with him about the governing of the country. "Why should I mind learning wisdoms and languages?!" Immediately he thought of the words of his friend the clever one. And he had advisors who were true friends.
During the meal. and the simple one answered him appropriately. After this. in the place where the King had commanded. "What is this. And so it was: They built him the buildings. he made him a festive meal. that a king such as this would send after a lowly one such as I? If it is because of my wisdom. and it is 72 . that the King would send for me?! Behold. How could it be explained. answered to the messenger who brought it. where would be his chair of office. He set aside a specific place. "Listen to what I say. so how could it be that he is sending for me?" And he was very bewildered by this. he drew on his wisdom and philosophy. In my opinion. and yet he rules with such simplicity!" And it was very pleasing to the King. Now the clever one. And he gave him a letter testifying to his position . and found more and more favor in the King's eyes.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN he was ruling with uprightness and great truth. and said." In the evening. "Wait and stay here the night. when he received the letter from the King.that he should be a minister as described. He commanded to be built beautiful and extravagant buildings to house his administration. The King said. "I see that he is such a brilliant man. and we will talk and consider together. Then he spoke up and said to the clever messenger. that a king such as this would send after me? After a lowly person such as I. He appointed him to be a minister over all the ministers. he has such authority and power. the King began to speak about various disciplines of knowledge and languages. and who am I. without any corruption or deception. and he went and accepted his honors with authority. what am I compared to the King? And does he not have his own wise men? The King himself must be very wise. and I am lowly and foul in comparison to such a great and awesome king as this.
that there is no king at all. that there is no king in the 73 ." So he said to the messenger. believing that there is a king. The whole world is mistaken in this nonsense. until he agreed. for the King only appears in public very rarely). who is the king? Certainly there is no king at all. then who runs the country?" The clever one answered him. Did you ever see the King?" He answered "No. The custom is that there are seventy advisory positions. the King does not exist at all. Consider it.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN certainly clear and proveable. and these offices are held for a limited time. and lived there all your life. how could it be possible that all the people of the world would allow themselves to depend on one man. it is certain that there is no king at all." (For in truth not everyone merits to see the King." The clever messenger responded. you see with your own eyes. for I am an expert in this. For even you have never seen the King in your life. and I was in Italy. that my words are correct. "But wait! I brought you the letter from the King!" The clever one asked him. "Did you receive the letter directly from the King?" He answered "No. "Wait until the morning. You asked the right person. and they decreed that there is no king in the world at all. All the citizens of the country have a turn as an advisor. The clever one said to him. "You see that my words are clear and accurate. "There. someone else gave me the letter in the name of the King. one after the other. you are from the capital city. "I'll give you the explanation. and I will show you one proof after another." The clever messenger continued and asked. "If this is true. because I wandered through various countries." Then he asked him further: "Tell me. Then the clever one said." His words began to make an impression upon the messenger.
wandering on foot. and they were not respected at all. "For whom do you work?" "The King. "Come outside with me." They went to the market. they found that the people were mistaken. For people did not give any notice to pathetic characters such as they. and I will show you with total clarity.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN world at all. 74 . they approached another soldier. and began speaking with him. "The King. They turned into beggers. and said to him. he ought to believe in fairytales as well." "Have you seen the King?" "No. that there is no king at all. and in truth there is no king. and found that all of them were in error. and saw a soldier there. and I'll show you further how the whole world is seriously misled. "Have you ever seen the King in your life?" "No." And they came to an agreement." "So you see with your own eyes. So they went and travelled until their money ran out. They asked. If one were to believe that the King really does exist. they compared the King to a fairytale character. and their prestige faded. and then the second. how the world is totally mistaken. until they sold all of them. and every place they went. The matter of the King became for them like a fairytale. And they were constantly investigating people. They grabbed him and asked. and there is no king in the world. Then the clever one said. and woke up his friend the clever messenger." The clever one rose in the morning. and they first sold one of their horses." So they went and travelled through the world. "Come with me and travel through the world. the matter is clear: They are all mistaken. and they were obliged to go on foot. and in every place where they found the world in error." he answered." "You see what nonsense it is?" said the clever one. Again. and they are all deeply mistaken. "For whom do you work?" they asked.
Now these two clever ones came to the city." Then he burst out laughing. My friend! Let me explain to you how false this is. they ridiculed and joked about the falsehood and error of the miracle worker. As they were eating. He was very respected. He said to them. and was very angered. And there. The manager of the kitchen overheard their words. for the miracle worker was very esteemed there. They were very offended by this. The clever one assumed that a doctor must live there. So they went to a soup kitchen. for he was also a great doctor. The manager became very offended that they were deriding him in front of his son. in their wanderings. and said to his friend. they became hungry." Presently. the simple one who had become a minister). that they came to the town where the minister lived (that is. This is nonsense even greater than the fallacy of the King. 75 . and he wanted to go inside. and how seriously the world is mistaken in this falsehood. for he achieved amazing things. "This is the wildest falsehood and silliness. where one could eat for even a pittance. and they continued ridiculing the miracle worker in front of his son. They saw forty or fifty carriages lined up there. So he wanted to go in and meet the man. the miracle worker's son came in. "A miracle worker. and even among the noblemen he was highly regarded and famed. "Finish what's on your plates and get out of here!" After this. and found that they still had a few coins left. and wandered through it until they came to the house of the miracle worker. They served them their meal. there was a true miracle worker. He asked "Who lives here?" They answered. until he came to reign blows upon them and drove them out of his place. bearing sick people. and they wanted to bring a lawsuit against the manager. in that town.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN It came to happen.
speaking against the miracle worker. and he had also fallen into the same error. They informed the minister that someone desired to see him. and ask their host how to go about filing a lawsuit. and they answered that they had spoken critically about the miracle worker. For he is very highly respected here. And they went from one bureaucrat to another. give me a judgment against the one who beat me. "Because I spoke against the Miracle Worker. And there. For now. "On what account?" They answered that they had spoken ill of the miracle worker. we will talk about that later. but you also did not act properly at all. and drove them out of his house." The simple minister asked "Why?" He answered. and he ordered that they be brought in." They saw then.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN So they decided to go back to the house where they were keeping their belongings. and related the whole story of how they were beaten. in front of the minister's house were stationed guards. and went on to the town clerk (who was a gentile). And the clever one came before the minister. that this man was not one to take seriously. So the clerk beat them up. They came to him and described how he had beaten them severely. But the clever one did not recognize him because of his refined appearance. They left him. until they came to the previously mentioned minister. "As for the issue of your being my friend the simple one. Immediately the minister began speaking to him: "You see what my simplicity has brought me to. and as soon as the minister saw him. that he is false and a great 76 . He asked them why. He asked. "It is certainly not right to beat people. He responded. he recognized his friend the clever one. and what your cleverness has brought you to?" The clever one answered. each one higher ranking than the last.
he commanded that the clever one be given fine clothes.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN deception. His wife suggested that he send for the Miracle Worker. See now. "You are still holding onto your clever ideas? You see. "Now you do not need to worry at all". and the clever one asked. During the meal." The clever one laughed at this. I have already reached your level. In the midst of this. and you still haven't come to mine. who sent after us." The simple one was very offended on the issue of the King. "Why were you so frightened?" The simple one answered." Even so. you said that you could easily come to my level. The clever one began to prove his thesis that there is no king at all." The simple minister responded. but that I could not come to yours. his father and his grandfather were all kings? How do you know that he is the King? People told you he is the King. "What?! I myself have seen the King!" The clever one answered jokingly. they began to discuss together. "Because of the Evil One. and he ran and told his wife in great fear that the aforementioned one had sent for him. that this man denied the King's existence. So he did. and asked him to dine with him. The simple minister snapped at him. The clever and the simple one continued sitting together. saying "You believe there is an Evil One?" 77 ." The simple one was very shocked. but they deceived you with falsehood. and he had great faith in this. "Do you know with certainty that the one you saw was really the King? Are you sure that he. someone came and announced. "The Azazel. that is to say. and the Miracle Worker came and gave him amulets and safeguards and told him. being that he already knew him in the times of his greatness. the Devil sent for you.
so that they will not be able to harm me." So he gave him the escorts. This time the simple one was not shocked. "If so. Therefore. He answered "Yes. He answered. Only give me several soldiers to act as escorts." Presently. and had no fear at all because of the Miracle Worker's protection. And the sewage 78 . "If not. and they are reporting deceptively that they did not see him.. "Where are the clever ones?" The soldiers answered that they did not know at all how they had disappeared. and what does his hair look like?" etc. He said to the clever one. that the Evil One had sent after them. "Certainly. that is exactly the appearance of my brother. and cast the clever ones into it. "You see." The simple one asked. "Now what do you say?" He answered. "Such and such. There the Evil One sat. "Without doubt. he sent for me deceptively." The clever one said. and he created this deception in order to frighten me. then who is it who sent after us?" The clever one answered." "Will you go with them?" asked the simple one. on a throne within the sewage. "What is the appearance of the one who sent you after us? What kind of face does he have. And the Evil One snatched these two clever ones. The simple minister asked them. the one who had announced returned and repeated his message. and brought them to an expanse of sewage and mud. it was my brother. how did he pass by all the guards?" He answered. The clever one and the clever messenger mentioned before went with the man who had come for them. "I tell you. I have a brother who is angry with me. and the soldiers returned. he must have bribed them." Then he stood and asked the one who had come for them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The simple one answered. who wanted to be seen with me..
and they could not move at all in it.) And so they were immersed in the sewage. The Miracle Worker said. "You wicked ones. "Certainly I can show you the place and remove him. The Miracle Worker did what was in his power. who the Evil One sent for and took away. When the clever one saw the minister. 79 . why are you tormenting us? There is no such thing as an Evil One anyway. Only on the condition that no one will come except you and I. see how these wicked people are beating and torturing me so for nothing!" The minister shouted at him. he cried out. literally like glue. It was simply some contentious people. And so they were tormented there with intense suffering for several years. and honored him according to the custom of the nobles. They held that it was not real. and if he could extract him from that place. that had had some dispute with them in the past. and now they were taking revenge on them. and remove him from it. and from that day on he has not been seen?" The Miracle Worker answered yes. and they went there. "Brother. and then asked him if he could show him the clever one. "Do you remember the clever one. He asked the Miracle Worker. He went in to see the Miracle Worker. and saw the clever ones immersed in the mud and sewage. They cried out. One time the simple one passed by the house of the Miracle Worker. and held that some common wicked people were tormenting them. and they were investigating the meaning of it. So he asked him to show him his place." So they went together.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN was thick and sticky. and he thought of his friend the clever one. You wicked ones are tormenting us for nothing!" (For the clever ones still did not believe in the existence of the Evil One.
and not human beings. and there was no sewage at all. Then the clever one saw. in whom you did not believe. 80 . and show them that this was really the Evil One.that the King exists. and they found themselves on dry land. here is the Miracle Worker. He specifically can free you (and he will show you the truth)." Then the simple minister requested the Miracle Worker to remove them. The Miracle Worker did what he did. and so on. And those evil characters vanished into thin air.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "You're still clinging to your cleverness. and don't believe in anything? And you believe that these characters are human beings? Now look. and he was forced without choice to admit everything .
and he could not free his mind from it. until he woke up and realized it was only a dream. And though he saw that it had been a dream. But each time they arrived home. So they packed up everything he had . his expression would fall. He was extremely poor. One time the merchant dreamed that people came and packed all his belongings in cartons. And he was enraged. and his circumstances were entirely opposite that of the merchant. He asked them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE MERCHANT AND THE POOR MAN Once there was a merchant. had been accustomed to pay attention to the poor man and his wife.and took it all to the apartment of the poor man. and he would be shaken up at their 81 . and to give them donations. because they were great in number. But to lose his temper would not help. Nothing remained in his house save the empty walls. He was extremely rich. the merchant. all his belongings were still with him. even before. he gave them more attention than before. and he had all the good things in life. after the dream. The dream aggravated him sorely. and thank G-d. wealth and possessions .all his merchandise. Now. even so his heart pounded. Below his apartment lived a poor man. It enraged him that they wanted to take all he owned from his house. "What are you doing?" They answered that they were taking all his things to the poor man. Now. and he had abundant merchandise and other property. His documents and letters reached all over the world. Both of them lacked children.
your expression changes so markedly?" He answered her. but tell me. "Did you dream this dream on such and such a night (she specified the date)?" He answered her. "To that poor man" (that is. and commanded his men to take out one of the women. that he had had the dream described above. The poor man's wife asked. why is it that each time I come to your house. During the trip. a general passed by with his troops. So there. threw her into the general's carriage. They went and took out the wife of the poor man. "On that same night. "Please forgive me for asking. 82 . I also dreamed that I was very rich. Then one day. They pulled to the side to let him pass. His face would contort. to the merchant. for the general had travelled away. he was a military man. that all his wealth would be given to the poor couple. "Where are you going?" They answered. and he would be very distraught and disturbed. She asked him. And certainly. and travelled on. She took some friends with her. when I dreamed the same thing?" And upon hearing her dream. and from that day his heart had been seized by fear. As he passed. So I asked. Aside from that. he saw the women in the carriage. People came to my house and packed up everything. why should you ascribe so much significance to your dream. with troops guarding him. and all their poverty would be given to him. "Yes.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN sight. due to the dream. and among them the wife of the poor man. and what of it?" She told him. It seemed to him from the dreams. And he was very very distraught. explaining the entire matter. the merchant's wife went travelling in her carriage on a day-trip. saving her now was not a likely possibility. he became more and more shaken and disturbed. who they were now calling poor).
and they would ask her and tempt her. There were troops stationed there. until they got away. She cried excessively. they let him pass through. and now my wife has been taken from me. "Why are you crying so bitterly?" He answered. He went past all of them. and his mercy welled up. What is left?" And the merchant's heart felt for the poor man. and again they passed by all the guards unobstructed. went forward recklessly. paying no attention to the soldiers. Then the other women returned from their trip. "How did he come to be here?" And in their disarry. seeing the bitterness he was enduring. but she had a firm fear of Heaven. the poor wife had been taken." She went with him. 83 . until he entered the house and came to the place where she was sleeping. and said "Come. He woke her. and did something very reckless: He went to the house of the general." She saw him and was stunned.it was truly crazy . The husband mourned and cried a great deal. in his state of upheaval and unrest.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The general took her away to his country. One time the merchant passed by the apartment of the poor man.and went and asked in which city lived the above general. And he. and did not want to submit to him at all. and was very bitter about his wife constantly. and heard him crying. He came in and asked him. I have nothing. and behold. and they also fell into upheaval. "And should I not cry? What is left to me? There are those whose wealth or children remain for them. suddenly seeing a man in such tumult. He travelled there. They were also shocked and dumbfounded. He said to her. And she had fear of Heaven. "Come with me now. So he went and did something wild .
lakes and spring and brooks and rivers and seas. he realized in disbelief what he had done. And so it went several times. So she swore as before. They were as follows: Cistern and ritual bath. until they came to the sea. he left that place with her and went onward. After two days. In every place that they hid. and again she swore as before. Being that he was a trader. and understood that very soon it would cause a great commotion.that none of it should be witheld from him. greatness or success . and the suffering he underwent on her behalf. And so it was.any fortune. that there was a great uproar at the general's house. and she took the ritual bath for a witness. waiting for the commotion to die down. and he realized that also there they were looking for him. So she vowed to the L-rd that all the good fortune she would have . that he hid himself with her in other places like the first ones. The merchant and the poor man's wife went and hid themselves in a cistern filled with rainwater. They continued on. specifically seven watery locations. he navigated the route back to his own country. They went on. and hid in these places. They stayed there also about two days. until he arrived at his home 84 . He went with her further and further.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Presently. So he took the cistern as a witness. and then hid together in a ritual bath. She took note of all his self-sacrifice for her. and then continued on. and he was familiar with the sea routes. He stayed two days with her in the cistern. he should be allowed to do so. And again she thought of the great self-sacrifice and suffering he was enduring for her. she remembered his self-sacrifice and his suffering on her behalf. and took the place where they were as witness. But there was the problem of who would serve as witnesses. leaving her as she was. And if he would want to take all the fortune and greatness for himself.
because she was so beautiful. I am as well. However. that he wanted their children to marry. and he told her his idea. and there was great rejoicing. beauty that was beyond the realm of human appearance. She answered. that they took from the poor man to him. And many people would come to see her. and also resisting temptation when he had been alone with the poor man's wife. and through this their estates would be merged together. and I would not withold it. the likes of which could not be found in all the world. One time. It was implying that their children would marry. that my family would marry into yours. the poor man's wife visited him. In the merit of having done this good deed. and they were stunned by her great and very exalted beauty.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN with the poor man's wife. And people were saying. that perhaps this was the intent of the dream. She was incredibly beautiful. and they would give her many gifts out of their affection. 85 . For her beauty and glory were very. in the merit of having guarded her purity with both the general and the merchant. until the poor man became very rich. if you are willing. "She should be fortunate enough to survive to maturity (for a novelty remarkable as this has difficulty surviving). very awesome. "I also had thought of this. And she. but I did not have the boldness to speak of it. he sired a son that year. And he thought to himself. and through this the dream he had had would be realized. a girl. They kept giving. and such a novelty. and from him to the poor man. also had a child. for such beauty could not be found among people. He returned her to her husband. And the merchant came upon the idea of making a match between their children.
Her beauty was a great novelty among them. and all the people of the country concurred that he should become Kaiser. and from there he rose higher and higher. And many would come to see the daughter. and he succeeded every time. The Kaiser would send him to war. Besides which. Until the time came when the Kaiser passed away. For they were attempting to raise his status quickly. and were very impressed. And he raised him to an increasingly higher status. However. the nobles desired to arrange a match with the poor man. Now. for it was not mortal beauty at all. it was not befitting them to marry into the family of a poor man such as this. learning languages and other traditional disciplines. the daughter and the son learned together under one teacher. And nobles came to see her. From the awesomeness of her beauty. and the nobles wanted their families to become wedded to his. he was not free to arrange a match with anyone. and he continued to be very successful. for the news had already spread that he would make a match with the merchant. And the poor man. They arranged for him to serve with the Kaiser. many were vying for this. So he rose increasingly. Any noble who had a son desired to arrange a match between them. since a good number of nobles had been involved in raising him. Then all the ministers convened and ruled that he be appointed 86 . At first he was made a sergeant. until he became a general.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN For I already swore that all the good fortune I should have would not be witheld from you. However. until the poor man became wealthy. had more and more success. and gave presents. So they were obliged to see to it that his status would rise. who had become a general.
Eventually the Kaiser saw that as long as the merchant's son was still living. They judged to stuff him in a sack and cast him into the sea. And the Kaiser saw that it would be impossible to make another match in the face of the one with the merchant. He conquered countries. as if it was not he who was causing the loss. and was very successful.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Kaiser. and the judges understood that it was the Kaiser's will to eradicate him. and he tried with covert plans. He caused charges to come up against him. Thus. this Kaiser resisted a marriage arranged with the merchant . Now. and brought judges against him. He thought of ways to bring his downfall. conquer. They gave him a letter written in gold. Yet even the Kaiseress cannot oppose the will of the Kaiser. all the kings convened and agreed that he should be made Kaiser over the whole world. until the remaining countries agreed to give themselves up to him willingly.that all the beauty and fortune of the world was with him. it would be impossible to make any other match. She went to the ones appointed to throw him into the 87 . The Kaiseress was very downhearted from this. So he became the Kaiser.for it is not fitting for a Kaiser to marry into the family of a merchant. At first he thought to bring him to poverty. He would wage wars with success. Yet she. the Kaiseress. They caused him much loss. until he declined and became destitute. But his wife the Kaiseress would not budge at all from supporting the merchant. So this is what she did. For they saw his formidable success . and move on. and he waged wars. And a Kaiser can certainly arrange such a thing. especially seeing that his wife held the merchant in very high esteem. still stood by him the whole time. So he attempted to bring down this son of the merchant. Thus he began to conceive plans against the merchant.
So certainly you are his.the cistern." And she told her the whole story of what she had been through. that they should spare him for her sake. in his crudeness. Her entreaties swayed them. and spared him." So he went his way. Therefore. the ritual bath and so on. And your father. and that he was her groom. the Kaiseress went and called to her daughter. know that this son of the merchant. And how she had taken the seven places as witnesses -. "And behold. and she answered that she would certainly fulfill accordingly. She went and sent a letter to the son of the merchant. wants to murder him for nothing. saying "Go on your way." Her mother's words found favor in the daughter's eyes. you are all my good fortune and success. know that he is your groom. for she also had fear of Heaven. and how she had vowed in Hashem's name that all her good fortune would not be witheld from him. and his son is your groom. And so they did: They threw someone else into the sea in his place. and fell before their feet. in which she drew all the places that her 88 . that they should take someone else charged with the death penalty. and how the merchant had sacrificed himself for her. conveying the message that she considered herself to be his. he is your groom. saying: "My daughter. and pleaded with them exceedingly. He was already a mature man. and throw him into the sea in place of this young man. and had been with her in seven locations. and he went his way.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN sea. and they vowed to her to spare him. And she included a map. For why should he be sentenced to death? And she pleaded with them a great deal. and I effected that he be spared. And before this. I already struggled to save him. and do not desire anyone else in the world at all.
So he went wherever destiny would lead him. and they all became dispersed. So he would eat from the trees and drink the water. and fruit trees surrounding it. each one in a different direction. and he found there things he could eat. where there was a desert. And she warned him direly that he guard this map very. until he came out of the desert and reached a settlement. Eventually he wandered so far from the shore that he could not return. Each one struck out in search of food. However. the passengers were saved and reached the land. He went his way. they did not expect that any ship would come to rescue them. There was water there. And the power of the storm broke apart the ship. the farther away he strayed. He continued on and on. So they went in the desert looking for food. the appointed officers seized another man in place of the merchant's son. which he used to protect him from the wild animals in the desert. Afterwards. being as it was a desert. and spared him. The more he wanted to return. 89 . Therefore. a ritual bath. etc. going on and on.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN mother had hidden with his father. very carefully. as described before. And she drew the likeness of a cistern. Then a fierce storm came and carried the ship to another shore. and she signed her name at the bottom. The land to which they came was a desert. For ships did not ordinarily come there. He went in a ship and crossed the sea. and he had with him a bow. until he saw it was impossible to go back. And this young man went through the desert. and he travelled on until he came to the sea. He went on through the desert.
and she sat there. she answered 90 . And to those to whom she was more attracted. after the Kaiser carried out his decree on the merchant's son.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN He came to the conclusion that he should stay there the rest of his life. and was free of him (for the Kaiser thought that the sentence had been carried out on the merchant's son. She was an expert in music. he believed he was free to arrange another match for his daughter. if he left this one. And sometimes he would go out with his bow and shoot down a gull or a deer. but rather that the prospective match should come there himself. And it pleased him to spend the rest of his life there. and she skilfully fashioned a place where a suiter could come before her and sing a song of desire. And kings came to suit her. She would play instruments and other such diversions. And whenever they spoke to her of matches. as was the custom. They made her a fine courtyard. and travelled on? Therefore he thought he would stay there and live out the rest of his days. He also caught fish. giving him meat to eat. and each one sang his song. and that he was no longer alive). And who could tell if he would reach another place like this. for there were very good fish in the water. she sent an answer in the form of a song of affection. and they stood in that place. So they began to speak to her of matches with this king or that one. She chose daughters of noblemen to be companions. For he had it well there. in the manner that one in love speaks words of affection to the one he desires. For it would be hard for him to return to civilization. and she passed the time there. by way of her companions. Now. she would answer that she did not want to talk. To some of them. with the fruit to eat and the water to drink.
they would collapse from the intensity of her beauty. and knew the art of music. And he could not recognize the tree in which the letter was hidden. She would reveal her face. she showed herself to them face to face. But to all of them she concluded. He chose wood that was suitable for making instruments. he had had a sign marking its place. and hid the letter there. and some lost their minds from lovesickness. and to all of them she answered as before. And to some. the tree with the letter had been jumbled with the other trees. And from the sinews of the wild animals. And when she revealed her face. And he dwelled there some time. and how his father had been a wealthy merchant. 91 . One time. and would sing and play. But now that they had fallen. And the merchant's son sat in that place. and he would sing and play to himself. "But the waters did not cover you. And even though they went insane or became permanently weak. He also knew to play.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN herself. raising her voice in song. a great storm wind came and broke apart all the trees that had stood there. and stayed there. Some of them remained weakened. and now he had ended up here." No one could understand her intent. also with words of affection. for whom she felt even more attraction. and made a mark in a tree. He went and took the letter. and sing words of affection. For while they were still standing. he made strings. for there had been many trees there. and carved a hole in it. more kings came to suit her. He fashioned for himself a dwelling-place. beyond imagining. from the greatness of her beauty. and he would recall all that he had been through. and made some for himself. He would take the letter that the daughter of the Kaiser had sent him.
seeing that it was forbidden for him to go there. So the King looked upon the idea favorably. he would go insane from the overwhelming pain. He decided that he must go on. "If I bring the woman here. for why should he be murdered for the favor he had done?! Thus. and it was on his account that she did not want to be matched with anyone else. it is impossible to be matched with her." Yet to murder him would be difficult as well. He saw that if he continued to dwell here. and went where destiny would lead him. it would be awkward. the King considered. He cried and was tormented by this a great deal. for there were too many of them. They answered "Yes. They answered "Yes. come what may. He advised this king to go over there and be betrothed to her. however. So he filled his pack with meat and fruits.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN So he could not recognize the tree. he would be in great danger from the pain. He asked." He concluded to himself. he decided to banish him to a 92 . and that man is here. However. and to pay him money in exchange. And he continued. The King sensed the truth in his words. He told the King his entire story how he was her true groom.that is. that he should approach the king of the country in which he was now. for it is impossible to invent something such as this. And it was not realistic to split open all the trees to find the letter. for if not. until he came to a settlement. the seven watery locations. And he left signs for himself in the place he was leaving." He asked if his beautiful daughter was known there. "Which country is this?" They answered him. He asked if the Kaiser was known in that country. And because it was impossible for him to enter her country. he was hereby giving over the signs in his keeping . which he felt deeply.
and sang his song. And to the second king. to the place of the Kaiser's daughter. the seven witnesses. In the midst of this. that he was being banished in recompense for the favor he had done. So he went to a third king. and they prepared for the wedding. However. and she signed that she was betrothed to him. So he came to the spot where the suiters stood. So in the place to which he was sent. And this king also decided as the other. The first king immediately set out and came there. the second one arrived. and gave over the signs.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN distance of two hundred miles. that he had used this order. upon hearing that she had found her soulmate. it was a wonder to her.that is. he inserted in the song all the seven places . and he sent the son two hundred miles away. The son was also very resentful at this. And with wisdom. he went to another king. and sang the song. Much happiness and commotion ensued. according to the needs of the song. And he urged the king to travel immediately . And even if he did not beat him to it. Only she found it hard to understand why the order was wrong. and said that even so. he nevertheless had one sign beyond the other king. He paid no heed to this. he had to change the order of the places. and they informed him that she was already betrothed. When the Kaiser's daughter heard the seven places. and to this third he added signs even more impressive. The son was very resentful at this. For thus the sense of poetry of the song demanded. But she assumed that perhaps it was because of the poetic needs of the song. and told him the same story.perhaps he could get there before the other. And she concluded to herself that this must be the man. he added a sign. he had something to tell that would 93 .
He went and sang his song." And the people had no idea why she had favored these two men more than all the others. who had sent the second king. as described earlier. And now this third one arrived. And the third also concluded. telling him the same story. Now. and adding more impressive signs. "Even so. However. he poured out his heart. on which was drawn all the seven places. had felt offended. Further. and upon arriving. the king should also draw for himself a map with all the places. and bring it to her. and how could another man find this out? In any case. and she was dumbfounded. Thus. And he showed the map with the signs drawn on it. so he said he did not know. and she stood astonished. And in front of the third. However. She asked him. and in order as well. So he also banished him two hundred miles away. He said. perhaps it was just the craft of the songwriting that had brought him to mention the places. that will certainly sway her. she could not take any action. he gave an additional sign. "How did the first one know?" To tell the truth did not seem a wise idea. for he told all the signs.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN certainly sway her. that it would not be appropriate to bring her here if this young man was in the area. And as for the first. And this third king also ran there. And it was amazing to her. they told him that there are already two who came before him. and had gone to the third king. for the first one had also seemed like the right man. the son. For the first one also told the signs. explaining that he had had a letter. 94 . it appeared to her that this second was her true soulmate. she witheld a final decision. and arranged all the places in the proper order. and sang his song with signs more impressive than the other two. I have something to tell.
And he told her everything . He went and sang his song. Several years passed.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and then the second. and there he would spend the rest of his days. and likewise the second. and decided to return to his place in the desert. where he had been.how he had sent kings to her. and said that he had something to tell. being satisfied with nothing less than the letter. etc. and gave increasingly accurate signs. and he sat there and ate. etc. But she did not take him seriously at all. and pass the rest of his days. for a long time had already passed. For according to the value he ascribed to the life of a man in this world. Thus. 95 . and then he arrived there. "How much longer will they keep kicking me farther and farther away?" Thus. For she had been sure that the first one was her groom. and he decided to dwell there in the desert. He wandered about attempting to reach that desert. (And certainly the kings who came before all had explanations for why they did not bring the letter. The son concluded that he should not delay here at all.perhaps he could accomplish something. and everything he had been through. and she no longer wanted to depend on signs. until he reached the place. So he wandered about. and so she did not want to depend on anything save the letter. he judged it to be good to pass his days there. Presently. he decided that he himself should go there . and he reminded her that they had learned together in the same schoolroom and the like. the son thought to himself. how he had hid the letter in the tree. she said she would not believe anyone until one would bring her the letter with her own handwriting.) And she certainly did not recognize him.
And so this one abandoned himself. there went a murderer. So he started to plan to do it. and receive great wealth in exchange. as is the way of murderers. saying. He also fashioned birds out of gold. without the stalks' breaking. 96 . and it seemed as if the birds themselves were playing. and if not. Many people came there to buy expensive and abundant merchandise. He stayed there some time. He also added innovations. for there were people hidden in a room on the ship near the birds.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And upon the sea. and people bought quality products from him. He also made wheat stalks of gold. And a murderer abandons himself. and presented himself as a major merchant. and they appeared to be truly alive. And what could he lose? For he was given to abandon. for he was a eunich. and positioned his ship on the sea. For the birds were large. He came to her city. fashioning the birds so that they appeared to play music. the murderer travelled with all this to the country wherein was the Kaiser's daughter. approximately a quarter of a year. and another sang. not. One of them would hammer and knock with its tongue. and mooring it.how the birds sat on the stalks. it succeeds. For they were manipulated by metal rods. with great artistry. He himself did not need her. And this in itself seemed a great novelty . he wanted to kidnap her in order to sell her to some king. and they produced all these sounds. And he heard that there was in the world a very beautiful woman. with artistry. So he went and bought a tremendous amount of very impressive merchandise. another chimed a bell in its mouth. If it succeeds. until it seemed as if they themselves did all the above. Still. Now. letting down the anchors. and he positioned the birds on the stalks. and he thought to kidnap her. It was all done with sleight of hand.
pushed him out and said "Go!" And this sailor had no 97 . the murderer who appeared a merchant). She saw that it was an amazing novelty. So the Kaiser's daughter decided to go to him. because you are the Kaiser's daughter. and presently she became a regular customer. and left. Then he also went into the room. and sent for him that he should bring his wares to her. and locked the door. bought from the merchant. And she bought merchandise from him. She also took several friends with her. but to others I don't want to show it at all. But the merchant said. The murderer continued there more time. and covered her face. and another time she came. only to you. and he opened up the room with the golden birds. and left again.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The Kaiser's daughter also desired to buy from him. For they could collapse just from seeing her beauty. and stripped her clothes from her. And as he was a merchant. Then he acted simply. Rather. and a guard followed behind. "If you come again. One time she visited him. no! I will not show this to any man. pushing her into a sack. The merchant said to her. veiled his face. that when she went in the market. including the guard. With these clothes he dressed one of the sailors. coming and going freely. He sent her a reply saying it was not his practice to bring his wares to the home of the buyer." So she went in alone. She came to the merchant (that is. It was her custom. no one had the authority to make him do differently. also wanted to go in. I will show you products even more beautiful than these. She returned home. not even to the daughter of the Kaiser. The others. whoever wanted to buy had to come to him. real wonders. She went out. "No. she wore a veil on her face so that men would not look at her.
and hid with her in a cistern filled with rainwater. A great uproar followed (and they slapped the sailor's face and kicked him out. And so it was. and they chased after the ship. for he was not guilty. He left the ship with her. Until they arrived back at the room where the Kaiser's daughter had been accustomed to sit. so he told them to flee immediately. they catch you. they began to walk with him immediately. And he (the sailor) went with them. not knowing where he was at all. until the commotion died down. I'll strangle you immediately. my life would be worth nothing at all to me. the pursuers would chase them. assuming that the Kaiser's daughter was on it. And he threatened her not to scream. For they thought he was the Kaiser's daughter. But pursue they would. a great commotion arose. and he knew they would pursue him. so no one should hear her. And to the sailors on the ship. And if I lose you. Then they unveiled his face and saw that he was a sailor. For certainly. being that the guard and the companions did not realize. So. The murderer hid with her in the rainwater cistern. but did not find her on it. not having known at all)." 98 . since you are already in my hands. he commanded that they immediately cut the anchors and flee. As soon as he exited the room with his face covered. my life is worth nothing to me. if you let out a scream. what of it?" For it is the way of murderers. and I don't care what will become of me. and he said to her. that they do not care what happens to them. "And if they catch you. If I should lose you and you are taken from me. because I'm worth nothing in my eyes. Now. but they would not fire on the ship. "I struggled hard to catch you.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN idea what was being done with him. the murderer took the Kaiser's daughter.
they were searching for her. and did not dare to scream. where the young man had been. the seven witnesses. they left there. for he was a eunich. And he searched to find at least a small fishing boat. Thus. in order to cross over with her. So he hid with her again. He started to call out to her. and took the Kaiser's daughter with him in it. the seven types of water: cistern. and realized that there too. and he feared that she would be snatched from him. ritual bath. but she stayed quiet and did not answer. etc. smashing it. For she reasoned. they left. And he crossed the sea with him (From this point we will refer to the Kaiser's daughter in the masculine. why should I return to him? And if he should return and find me. Especially considering that it is not in his interest to kill me. After a time. Afterwards. until they reached another place. and came to a city. he had no need to fear from anyone. that is. So he let her go freely. and she appeared as a male. and knew that this was a desolate place. spring. being that the murderer knew the geography well. A storm came and drove the ship to the shore." So she did not 99 . because the murderer had dressed her as a male). until he hid with her in all the seven locations that the original merchant had hid with her mother. and they split up to search for food. "If in the end he will sell me. For that was the language Rabbi Nachman used to refer to her. When they arrived there. But he wanted to sell her to some king. They found themselves on the same shore with the desert. And she gained distance from him. So he dressed her in sailor's clothing. He found a ship. and he hid with her in another place. They went on and on. in a ritual bath.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And she was mortally frightened of him. He himself did not need her. where ships did not come. Until they came to the sea. I will tell him that I did not hear him. for he wants to sell me.
and she only intensified it. and went onward. And they came to strife and and anger between them. Certainly he had his own deep sorrow at the loss of his daughter. But as soon as she arrived. and so it was done. she continued on. She tormented the Kaiser with harsh words. "Behold. again unsuccessfully. and they ruled to send her. "I was travelling at sea with some merchant. "Also through travelling with a merchant." So he sent him away." she said. to the point that he ordered her to be sent away." etc. So he continued on. "How did you come to be here?" He answered. After this. Her hair had grown long. "How did you come to be here?" She answered. He blamed it on a particular general. and was not successful. beating her head against the wall at the loss of her daughter. the Kaiser entered into war." So they sat there together. and could not find her. She would say accusing words. you lost the war. And he looked here and there. Meanwhile. until he became very angry. "Now we have lost her. After the Kaiser's daughter was kidnapped. saying "Because you did such and such. and what do I have left?" And she beared down hard on him with her words. the Kaiseress had mourned.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN answer him. until she reached the place where the young man had sat. he was filled with joy at seeing another person. 100 . in a sailor's uniform. and she found some food. and it is safe to assume that wild animals ate him. and they did not recognize each other. She asked him. and still could not find her. and she was also dressed as a man. she was all our fortune and success. and now her daughter was lost. He continued the war campaigns. accusing that it was through his baseness that the young man had been lost. He set up judges. And she went on. He asked.
" So they let him free. The citizens of the country saw that he was acting strangely: First he sent away his wife. and brought them to live in the palace. etc.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and sent away more generals. Until he came to the same place where the other two were sitting (that is. Let me go. And their hair had also grown. for the Kaiser's hair had grown. the son of the merchant and his beautiful daughter. I was your ruler. and the Kaiseress will rule the country. brought back the Kaiseress. for all of them knew how to play. And the Kaiser. for he had already been there a long time before the others. and then the generals. and you do not need to fear from me. and ate and drank. and she ruled the country. until he came to the sea. and they ate. They answered likewise." And so they did . Now the young man was the most competent among them. And so he sent away a good number of them. and he continued on and on. For I surely will not try to return to the kingdom. "How did you come to be here?" He answered that he had travelled with a merchant. who had been banished. They asked him. And they did not recognize each other. So they concluded. Also in his case. who was dressed as a male). Several years passed. and some years had passed. and send him away. So they sat together. "For in spite of everything. "Why not do the opposite: Let's bring the Kaiseress back. and I will at least be free the rest of my days. be compassionate and let me go. and I certainly did good for you. And they played instruments.they sent him away. pleaded with those escorting him to let him free. and they used the 101 . So now. He would bring them meat. and he kept going. Then the Kaiseress immediately sent for the merchant and his wife. a storm wind drove his ship to the same desert shore mentioned above.
"Did you hear of a certain Kaiser?" He answered yes. He spoke with anger and gnashed his teeth. he did not relate the whole story. according to the text. And all the abundant good he had had as the son of a wealthy merchant . only that he was a merchant's son). "What good did you have in your life. I would provide for him as I am providing for you." Again.how he was the son of a merchant. Then the young man began to feel rage. The Kaiser then asked. So he proved to them that it was a good place to spend one's life. "No (for he was merciful). "If that Kaiser were to come into your hands now. the Kaiser that they had spoken of. the Kaiser began to sigh and groan." "How?" The young man appraised that here. He also answered yes to this. And the young man convinced them that this was a fine place to spend one's life. that previously. The Kaiser asked him. saying "That murderer!"). and how he had come to be here. To the contrary. and even by the standards of prosperity in civilized places. For he did not know that he was speaking to the Kaiser himself. They asked him. "That murderer!" he said (that is. and he told him the whole story he had been through (it appears. "It is due to his cruelty and baseness that I came to be here. "How bitter and unfortunate for that Kaiser. and related his entire story . would you take revenge on him?" He answered. The Kaiser asked him. he did not have anything to fear.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN trees for firewood. "What makes him a murderer?" He answered." For he heard that his daughter had 102 .here. this being more valuable here than gold in a settled place. too he had abundant good. it was good to live here. that you found it preferable to live here?" He answered them. Then he asked him if he had heard of a certain beautiful woman.
would you take revenge?" The young man answered. They said to him." And so it happened. hugging and kissing him. when you go. and he would make a mark on them. and he had hid it in these trees. so that the next day he would not check them again. And she (the Kaiser's daughter. For there were thousands upon thousands of trees there. he would come with tear-stained eyes. The young man fell upon him.. perhaps he would find it. and now he was searching. I would provide for him as I am providing for you. "Because of his cruelty and his pride. and saw that it was her handwriting exactly. only that she appeared as a man).it was all through him! Again the Kaiser asked him. and told what he had been through. opened the letter. heard all that they had said to each other.that the daughter of a kaiser had sent him a letter. and the Kaiser's daughter found the letter in a tree.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN been lost. etc. 103 . so he marked those he had checked." Then the Kaiser revealed himself and admitted that he was that Kaiser. who was also there. And the young man had a daily routine: Each day he would search in three trees. we will go with you maybe we can find the letter. and a storm wind had come. for who knows. looking for the letter. they went with him. "What are you looking for in those trees. he lost himself and his daughter. "If he came into your hands now. and why do you come back with tears in your eyes?" He answered them. and he banished! Then the young man added. For he had cried from searching and not finding. He held onto the hope that he just might find the letter. and I was sent here . "No! To the contrary. "Tomorrow. telling the whole story . And when he would return from looking. The others asked him.
"What use is this letter to me now? How can I find her?" For he thought. saying that if she were to marry his daughter. So he agreed to go along. "If I reveal myself immediately to my mother. But the Kaiser's daughter asked him to come back with them." After that. and came to the kingdom where the Kaiseress ruled. he would no longer need fear. go and marry her (for she appeared to be a male). The three went together. saying she would certainly marry the beautiful woman. for he feared to go back to the kingdom. Now there remained only the problem of the Kaiser. "I.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Then. who was disguised as a man)." She wanted to go. the merchant's son. pretending as she was to be a man). for if he were to marry his daughter. and he would surely win the beautiful woman. was also there. I am your daughter. They came to the city where she lived. After that. so why do I need the letter? I'll spend the rest of my life here! He returned the letter to her. and hired a ship." So she sent a letter. the Kaiser's daughter. she told the truth. "and she is here. After this. she said. and described everything that had come upon her daughter. The Kaiser's daughter thought to herself. she went there herself. saying there is someone who has information about her daughter. and he could go home again. "and the good that comes to me. the Kaiser's daughter said all this to the young man. "Take this letter. for his good fortune would return. the young man said. And the young man saw that this was a wise man (that is." (That is. and she asked him to go with her as well. he would no longer need fear from the kingdom. and stationed the ship there. I will share with you. she could expire. she stipulated that she did not want to marry unless her father the Kaiser was 104 . the whole story. as well. However. and said." Then she informed her that her groom. Surely by now she is with some king.
and they ruled over the nation. 105 . Her mother was not at all pleased with this. but behold. They ran to return him. So the marriage took place. Nonetheless. and the kingdom and the Kaiseress accepted the couple. for she was very wroth with him for having created all this trouble. he could not be found at all. The happiness was complete. she was obliged to fulfill her daughter's request. Then her daughter told her that he was also there.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN brought back to his place.
was drawn to the graces of royalty. although he grew up in the care of the maid. until he became a great success. who was known as the son of the King. this was a maid of a low enough stature that people did not take notice). according to the way they were raising him. who was called the son of the maid. The time came for the Queen to give birth. And the true son of the King. and they learned together in one classroom. who worked for the queen.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE SON OF THE KING AND THE SON OF THE MAID WHO WERE SWITCHED Once there was a King. Also the opposite: The maid's son. the one who grew up as the King's child. 106 . who had a maid in his house. distinct from the manners of kingship. since he was being raised in the King's palace. he was obliged to behave in a kingly fashion. Also the child of the maid (that is. and the child of the maid next to the Queen. and placed the child of the King next to the maid. The two children began to grow. The son of the King (that is. (And though it can be assumed that a typical employee would not have been allowed to come into the presence of the King. and the maid's birthing-time coincided. She switched them. for all thought he was the son of the King) ascended higher and higher. was drawn to other manners. the true son of the King. The midwife went and switched the babies. in order to see what would come of it and how the affair would turn out. who was being raised by the maid) grew up in the same house. However.
how people were saying that he had been switched. 107 . when someone revealed the secret to the purported son of the King . the midwife. for it would not be in accord with your honor. Therefore. being that women are lightheaded. in every place where the "son of the King" is mentioned. I informed you of this. So how could they be switched back again? So it was clearly forbidden for them to reveal this to the King. the intent is the son of the King. The day came. You must not investigate it at all. Until the whole world was murmuring about how the King's son had been switched.those who hold that he is the real son of the King. as is the habit of people. and that one to her friends. no one would talk about it openly. this would strengthen their position. being raised by the maid. But the people gossipped with each other about it. who was known as the son of the King). and appeared to be his son. "it is not for you to investigate this. For certainly the King could not be allowed to know. For they could say. "However. went and revealed the secret to a friend.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Then. And so with the other: In every place the "son of the maid" is mentioned.perhaps it was a lie. because if a conspiracy were to develop against the monarchy. they are adopting the maid's son as their king . only that he grew up with the King. And the son of the King (note: As a rule. you need to think of how to get rid of him (all these are the words of the one who revealed the secret to the son of the maid." he continued. However. for what could he do? There was no way to repair the damage. it is referring to the one who is really the son of the maid. All the same. lest the King find out. until the secret was passed on from one to another. for the rumor could not be believed with certainty .
so that the world would not know he was doing it. And then he caused more harm to the father of the other son. in order to force him and his son to leave." And it was very upsetting to him.in these cases. 108 . And he caused him trouble all the time. But after the King grew old and died. He said to himself. And if you are the true son of the King. His father gave him a large sum of money. He continually caused him trouble after trouble. Therefore. So he told his son (who was not really his son) the whole story. and he went his way. so he hid the matter. For this would not be respected by the public. "For either way: If you are truly my son. the King's son took the throne. but nevertheless he caused much suffering for the other son's father. trouble after trouble. then I certainly have even more compassion upon you. you must distance yourself from here. He did it stealthily. the meaning is to be taken on the simple level) started to make life very difficult for the father of the servant son (who was really his own father). until the servant son decided to leave. the son was limited in his power. one after another. the son of the King continued to shoot his arrows of malevolence at him. and said that he had great mercy on him. G-d forbid. All the while that the King was still alive. then I certainly have much compassion for you. and went out of his way to cause him pain all the time. And he was very resentful that he had been exiled for no reason. For he wants to wipe you out completely. "How is it that I deserve to be banished? If I am really the King's son. And the father understood that he was persecuting him because of the issue of the substitution. However.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Excepting the instances where the terms "true son of the King" or "true son of the maid" are used .
Either way one considered. and when he heard people murmuring and gossiping about the substitution. Meanwhile. And if I am only the servant's son. If he was really the son of the King. He became immersed in his affairs and forgot about the above mentioned problem. And when the King went back to his routine. For since he was weighed down by worry. But he did not have any idea what to do about it. They made a camp there. the King ruled the nation with a strong hand. was it not enough that he was switched? Should he have to suffer banishment as well? And if he was not the son of the King. For what was his sin? The King thought about it. he certainly did not deserve to be banished. and this affair came to his mind. the King and his ministers went hunting. And he could not talk about it with anyone else to take advice. how he had banished the son of the servant without justification. and rested and went walking. there was no point in continuig the excursion. One day. He thus became very depressed and told his ministers they would return home now. I still should not have to flee for no reason -. it seemed wrong. he would deal with them cruelly. 109 . he had a number of important issues to attend to. and regretted the great sin and evil he had done. And he wanted to pass all his days drunkenly pursuing his desires because of having been banished without justification. and he ruled with intimidating might. and thus he took to drinking. The King laid down to rest.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN I surely do not deserve it. They came to an attractive place beside a river.what is my crime?" He was very bitter. and went to houses of prostitution. So they returned home.
I also don't deserve it. One time.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And the son that had been banished. and that he should endure all of this. if the Holy One. he went to sleep. He should go there. and travelled to the fair. and also his expensive clothes he left there. Yet he dreamed the dream several times more. "If you want to have pity on yourself. Still. and the first hired labor he would happen to find. since he had started to regret. he should accept. Then he awoke. they said to him during the dream. "What is this that G-d has done to me? If I am the son of the King. "To the contrary. on a certain day. there would be a fair. and began thinking of all that had befallen him. even if it were beneath his dignity. He thought. Once. and it confused him thoroughly. to be a banished fugitive. do this!" So he was obliged to obey the dream. and dreamed that in a certain place. but the dream entered deep into his thoughts. And if I am not. but this dream stayed on his mind. 110 . He left the remainder of his money in his lodgings. For sometimes a thought passes immediately from one's mind. blessed be He decided to do such a thing. So he drank even more heavily. am I justified in behaving the way I did? Was that appropriate behavior on my part?" And he began to feel sorry and regret his deeds. the thoughts of regret and repentance began to confuse him all the time." Then he came to the conclusion. However. And he took the simple working clothes.one time he went alone on a trip. and who had did what he had done and wasted all his money . I certainly don't deserve this. At one point he laid down to rest. it was difficult for him to accept doing this. to have the King's son replaced. but after that he returned to his place and went back to the drinking.
he began to use him domineeringly. leading the animals. "There are other shepherds working for me. However. "Yes!" So the merchant hired him immediately. They also gave the son bread.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN When he got there. with the merchant accompanying. go with them. because of the dream. So he went with the animals. for he saw the great cruelty that was directed specifically at him. and the son of our story was treated with particular cruelty. "Would you like to do some work?" He answered yes. The merchant sat on a horse and went with them. So he answered immediately. for he was a tender person. "I need someone to lead my animals. He said. and he ate. "What have I done?!" For it certainly was not appropriate work for him. and kill him (for being that he was frail. they went into a very thick forest. the other shepherds who were leading animals gathered. Right away. going on foot among them. and they took the sack with the bread for the shepherds. and he brought them outside of the city. and now he would have to lead animals. The merchant commanded him in the way of a master. he met one merchant who asked him. this appeared possible). After this. and the merchant gave them to eat. He asked the merchant. it was too late to change his mind." He gave him several animals to lead. as is the way of employers with their workers. Can I hire you for that?" And he did not have a chance to think twice about it. They came to a resting place. "How can I go alone with these animals?" He answered. The son was very frightened by the merchant. He feared that the merchant would give him one mighty whack with his stick. And he began to ask himself. He treated them cruelly. where the trees were practically adjacent to each other. The merchant shouted 111 . and they began moving together. Two cows that had been in the son's charge became lost. There.
And because the forest was so thick. But they only escaped farther away. as was their nature. He tried to catch them there. and he heard the howling of the animals. and climbed into it. the merchant will kill me. For if I return without the cows. they lost sight of one another. and behold! the cows were standing next to him. he saw a man sleeping there. in a thick forest such as this. so he went to try to catch the animals. He came down from the tree and went to catch them. "Why should I go back to the merchant? How can I go back without the cows?" For he had a great fear of the merchant. Night came again. and stood still to graze and eat. He decided to climb into a tree and sleep there. repeatedly." But he concluded. In the morning. Then the cows found some grass. He looked and saw a very great tree. So he continued chasing. until he found himself deep in the forest. and they eluded him. He chased a long time. "Either way I will die. due to his great fear of the merchant. And so he would chase. 112 .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN at him. He thought to himself. He had never before been in such a situation." For so it seemed to him. and they escaped ever farther. and they escaped again. And he immediately disappeared from the view of his companions. sleeping alone in the night. he looked. and they escaped again. When he ascended the tree. He followed them further. Presently night fell. and they escaped further. "And if I stay here. I will die from the wild beasts of the forest. as soon as they entered it. for it was far from civilization. where there were wild animals that had no fear of humans. and he was terrified. and they would escape. He went chasing after the cows. And he continued to hear the roaring of the animals. Until he went very deep into the forest. And he heard the animals howling. So he continued chasing the cows.
and every night near daybreak. until the tree shook and swayed from the voice. They slept there next to each other. Towards morning. That is how I came here. and the horse went and strayed into the forest. and also the other one's horse." For in settled places. I went chasing after him. because it was so powerful. I stopped to rest. "Who are you. They looked. this one after the cows. "I came here riding on a horse. Until I came here." So they joined together. it was comforting to him to have found another man. and behold. It spread throughout the forest. "How did you come to be here?" He answered. and he escaped further. it immediately became day. And they agreed that even if they were to reach a settlement. I hear the sound of this laughter. they heard a very mighty voice of laughter. and heard the fearsome roaring of the animals. man? How did you come to be here?" But he did not want to tell the whole story. So he simply answered. one does not here a voice of laughter like this. this one's cows were there. For who has ever heard a voice of laughter that fills an entire region? After that. and saw. The son was extremely frightened from this. and two of them strayed here. "I already do not fear from this at all. And the second man said to him. 113 ." Then he asked the other man. and the other after the horse. Nonetheless. They asked each other. they would stay together as a team. "It seems to me like a place of demons. until all the trees shake and tremble." The son was shocked. They descended and began to chase them. and said to his companion. For I have already slept here several nights. "Because of the cows. I was shepherding cows.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and it frightened him. to be a team. through the whole forest.
Nevertheless. he understood that this was not a man at all. and was friendly toward him. only your own sins that are leading you on. "I." He was shocked at hearing this. But you. Enough! You have already suffered your punishment. and come to something that will give you satisfaction. The man then said. and the son chased them as before. Nevertheless. And that is surely very important in a wilderness. "How did you come to be here?" He responded by asking the same question: "How did you come to be here?" The man responded. and was stunned by what he saw. the son found a sack with bread. and yet no man from the settlement ever comes here. In the course of this. "What are you doing here?" He answered that he was chasing after the cows. 114 . And he went after him. cease from chasing them anymore. "Give up chasing after sins! For those are not animals at all. He was frightened of speaking or asking him questions. And so the horse also escaped. In the midst of this. he came upon a man. For he said that his descendants had been raised here. Therefore. for he understood that this was not a man at all. and the other man ran after it. Until they were separated and lost each other. Come with me. He took the sack on his shoulder.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The cows escaped farther. For such a man could open his mouth and swallow one! For he understood that this was not a man at all. he was comforted at having met another man. and went after the cows. my fathers and my grandfathers grew up here. Then the man asked him. the man did not do him any harm. how did you come here? For to this place people from the settlement never come. Now. The man asked him." So he went with him.
As soon as he saw him.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN In the course of this. he signed to him. And so he gave him bread . "Here in the wilderness. and do his will. And the slave went behind the man with the cows. And they went together after the Man of the Forest. "Know. and noticed the sack of bread he was carrying on his back. they would eat together from the sack until it was finished. he would command the slave to lift it. My life comes first. Then his friend looked at him. The other said. Don't be involved with him. Then they came to a place of spiders and snakes. and he was very afraid. it is worth giving him the bread. and I need the bread for myself. saying "I'll give you all that I have. "What can you give me? For what could you give in place of bread in the wilderness?" The man with the horse answered. "I have an even harder question: How will you reach my house?" And he showed him 115 . Out of his fear. for he is not a man at all!" He went to his friend. "If I can buy a man. nothing has currency. And he had him swear that he would remain a slave. even after they came to a settlement. When he needed to lift something heavy." But he started to beg and plead with him. and whispered all this in his ear. Give me bread!" He answered him. Together. "Brother.I'll sell myself to you for the bread. He started to beg him. that that is not a man at all. I haven't eaten for several days. they followed the Man of the Forest." But no gift or favor is worth bread in the wilderness. pointing at the other man. "How will we pass through this?!" He answered him.that is. he met his friend who had been chasing after the horse." He thus bought him as a permanent slave. he asked the Man of the Forest. or needed some other type of help." The man with the cows considered to himself. "I'll give you myself . Having a slave made things a bit easier for him.
his house, which was suspended in air. "How will you come into my house?!" They went on with the Man of the Forest, and he brought them over safely. And he brought them into his house and gave them to eat and drink. Then he left them there. Now this man (the true son of the King, who was also the man with the cows) used his slave for everything he needed. And the slave was very resentful, that for an hour when he had needed some bread to eat, he had become a slave. Because now, they had all they needed to eat. But for the sake of one hour, he had become a permanent slave. He sighed and groaned, "How did I come to such a state, to be a slave?" The King's son, who was now his master, asked him, "What status did you have before, that you sigh so at being a slave now?" So he told him, how he had been a king, and they had murmured about him that he was exchanged, etc. (For this man with the horse, he was in fact the son of the maid, who had acted as King, and banished his friend.) And once it had occurred to him that he had not acted justly, and he regretted it, etc. And he was constantly plagued by regret at what he had done, the great evil he had committed against his friend. One time, he dreamed that his rectification would be to give up the kingdom, and go where his whim would lead him, and through this his sin would be atoned for. He did not want to do it, but the dreams kept haunting him, pushing him to do it, until he decided he would. He abandoned the kingdom and went where the road took him, until he came here, and now he had become a slave. The other listened to all this, and remained quiet. He said to himself, "I'll wait and see how I should deal with this one."
In the evening, the Man of the Forest came, and gave them to eat and drink. They slept there. In the morning, they heard the sound of the great laughter, that shook and rocked all the trees. The slave tempted his master to ask the Man of the Forest to explain this. So he asked him, "What is this roaring sound of laughter that comes just before dawn?" He answered, "That is the sound of the day laughing at the night. The night asks the dawn, "Why is it that when you come, I have no name?" Then the day laughs and lets out an enormous bellow, and then it becomes day. And that is the sound of laughter you hear." And it was amazing in his eyes. For it is a wonder that the day laughs at the night. In the moring, the Man of the Forest returned and then left again. And they ate and drank there. In the night they heard the voice of the wild beasts, all roaring and howling with their various voices, each one with its unique character: The lion roared, the panther howled in a different voice, and the birds all chirped and twittered with their voices. And so all of them called out with a different voice. At first the men were shocked, and did not listen attentively due to their fear. But afterwards, they turned their ears and heard, that it was a very wondrous voice of song and melody, which was a sublime delight to hear. All of the delights of the world were as nothing, insignificant and annulled, in comparison with the awesome delight of this melody. And they agreed to stay there, for they had enough to eat and drink, and they could enjoy this sublime delight, next to which all other delights were as nothing. The slave again tempted his master, this time to ask the Man of the Forest to explain this melody. He answered, "This is the
matter of the garment the sun made for the moon. And all the beasts of the forest concurred: Being that the moon does them a great favor - for their main rule is at night, and the moon shines for them. Thus they agreed to sing a new song in honor of the moon, who accepted the garment from the sun, and that is the melody you hear." When they heard that it was a melody, they paid attention more closely, and perceived that it was a very awesome and sweet melody. Then the Man of the Forest said to them, "This is such a novelty to you? I have in my possession an instrument that was passed down to me from my fathers, that they received from their fathers' fathers. It is made from leaves and colors, such that when one lays the instrument upon some beast or bird, it immediately starts to sing this melody. After this, the laughing sound was heard again, and it became day. The Man of the Forest left, and the man who was the true son of the King started searching for the instrument. He searched the whole room without finding it, and further than that he feared to go. And both of them (that is, the master, who was the true son of the King, and the slave, who was really the son of the maid, and who had held the throne for a time) were afraid to ask the Man of the Forest to take them to civilization. The Man of the Forest returned, took the instrument, and gave it to the true son of the King, saying, "I give this instrument to you, and as for your slave, know how to deal with him." Then they asked him, "Where are we to go?" He answered, that they should inquire after the country known as "The Foolish Country with the Wise King." They asked, "Where should we begin asking after a country such as this?" The Man of the Forest pointed with his finger, "In that direction."
Then he said to the true son of the King, "Go there, to that state, and there you will come to your greatness." So they went on their way. And they longed to find some animal or beast on which to try the instrument, to see if it would play. However, as yet they did not see any animal. Later, they came to a settlement and found a farm animal, placed the instrument on it, and it began to play. They went on until they came to the above-mentioned country. The country was surrounded by a wall, and one could only enter through one gate. And one needed to follow the wall a long way until one came to the gate. So they followed the wall until they arrived at the gate. Those at the gate did not want to let them enter. For the king of the country had died, and his son had taken his place. And the king had left a will, stating "Being that until now the country had been named The Foolish Country with the Wise King, and now they will be calling it The Wise Country with the Foolish King. And he who girds his loins to return it to the first name - that people will again call it by the first name, that is, The Foolish Country with the Wise King he will be King." Therefore, they would not let anyone enter, save one who could accomplish this. And so, they did not want to let him enter, and they asked him, "Can you gird your loins for this, to return the country to its former name?" And certainly he was not prepared to take on such a thing, so they were not able to enter. The slave tempted him to return home, but he did not want to consent, for the Man of the Forest had told him to go to this country, and that here he would find his greatness. In the course of this, another man came riding on a horse, who also wanted to enter. They also did not let him enter, for the same reason. Meanwhile, the son of the King noticed the man's horse standing there, and he took the
and it started to play the wondrous melody described before. but he was not willing. Then the son of the King. to understand one thing from another. and he would accept the challenge. Thus he saw that it was possible. he saw that it was possible. So that when someone makes a statement. if you give me the instrument. But I will teach this to you. and saw that it was truly a remarkable thing. The owner of the horse pressed him to sell him the instrument. But I know something. for he had become able to understand one thing from another. to let him in. Until now I had not revealed this to any other man.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN instrument and laid it on the horse. that is better than your instrument. "What can you accomplish with the instrument? You can only perform a concert. to understand one thing from another. I know something that I inherited from my ancestors. that there was now a man willing to try to return the country to its original 120 . He asked him. how he would do this. and he would take this on. it is possible through this tradition I have. Though he still did not know. after having learned to understand one thing from another. and earn a dinar. What could he lose? And he told the guards who had not let anyone enter. since he had become able to understand one thing from another. So they let him in. So he gave the man his instrument. "What can you give me in exchange for such a marvellous instrument?" The other asked him in return." The son of the King considered it. and he saw that he really could accept the challenge to return the country to its first name. He decided to demand that they let him enter. even so. went back to the gate of the country. And they informed the ministers of the country. and the man taught him how to understand one thing from another. that can enable one to understand one thing from another.
Heaven forbid. when such a wise man would be found. that would be truly tremendous in wisdom. and it is very wondrous and awesome. However. They chase him until he screams. saying that he who was wise enough to return the country to its former name. Thus. we will see if you are truly wise. For when one enters. And the King left a will. of silver and gold. They brought him to the ministers. and the ministers said to him. and he does not know what is happening or who is chasing him. know what it is you are taking upon yourself (all this the ministers said to him)." He asked them if one would be beaten 121 . and that man would become King. for people would again start calling it The Foolish Country with the Wise King." The ministers continued. "Know that we are not foolish. remaining from the days of the previous king. they immediately start chasing him. He is also wise. he is not wise at all. And so they chase him all the way out of the garden. but compared to the previous King.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN name. and compared to him we were all as fools. it is impossible to enter. It is only that the former king had been amazingly wise. leaving his son in his place. he would become King. The garden is very impressive. if you can enter this garden. That is. saying that when such a man would be found. until in comparison to him everyone else would be as a fool. Then the King died. who had been very great in wisdom. There grow instruments of metal. to see if you are such a wise man: There is a garden. Therefore the country now has the opposite name: The Wise Country with the Foolish King. He commanded his son. For such a man could return the country to its first name. Therefore. That is why it was called The Foolish Country with the Wise King. For they would all be as fools compared to him. "This will be the test. he would be King. he should abdicate the throne.
or more correctly. he went and stood by the man. and on it was written. would flee in very great terror. But he emerged in peace and serenity. He looked and saw a man standing there by the wall. that everything was dependent on this man. and through this left in peace.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN physically there. As soon as they started chasing him. that this man had been king several hundred years ago. And that when one entered the garden and they began chasing him. But in his time there had been peace.the person does not know who is pursuing. through having stood by the statue. and so after him. Then the true son of the King commanded that the statue be placed inside the garden. and had been chased. only to stand by this man. For before him there had been wars. So he went to the garden (that is. one did not need to flee at all. and by this he would be saved. He saw that above the man was a placard. He went along the edge of the garden. all people would be able to enter it in peace (the true son of the King understood all this because of his ability to know one thing from another). the true son of the King)." For thus people who had entered had described it to them. and in his time. a statue of a man. for he was able to understand one thing from another. and no one was guarding it. "The main thing is the chasing . The ministers saw in disbelief that he had come out in peace. Then he went and entered the garden. this garden needed no guards. and they emerged beaten and hurt as well. For others who had entered the garden. and he flees in great terror. that if they took this man and placed him inside the garden. that stood just outside the garden. and he saw that there was a wall surrounding it. Thus they did. without any harm. More than this. He perceived. there had been peace. but the gate was open. and then all the ministers were able to 122 . They said. For certainly.
And no man understands the meaning of the throne and the roads. and on the table stands a lamp. And beyond this lion. and that if the missing rose were returned to its place. On the second road.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN go through the garden. The ministers said to him. and the roads leading from it. and by the bed stands a table. if you can understand the matter of the throne and the other elements surrounding it. These roads extend and spread out across the whole country. a metal tiger. These roads extend from the throne in every direction. And so with the other roads. And no man understands the matter of the throne with all these items near it. If a man comes near it. entering and leaving in peace. and it is very high. And so with the other roads extending from the throne. And before the throne stands a bed. it is not fitting to give you the kingdom on the basis of one feat. it swallows him. the road stretches farther. and the roads are lined by walls. He looked carefully and saw that at the top of the chair. after having stretched out some distance. and realized that this chair was made from the wood of the instrument (the one that the Man of the Forest had given him). He went and looked at the chair. We will give you one more test: There is here the throne of the former king. And from the throne extend roads. without any harm. And they showed him the chair. the chair 123 . for example. stands another type of animal. etc. "Even though you accomplished this. after it has extended from the throne some distance. And on one of the roads. even so. And by the throne are wood carvings of all sorts of birds and beasts. stands a lion of gold. And it is also impossible to come close to it. a rose was missing. you will be tested in this. and he saw that it was very high. Therefore.
For the former king had done everything cleverly. was lying at the bottom of the chair. and discover the correct arrangement. To take a bird from that place and to put it in this place. and its position changed slightly. who now himself had become King. he saw that the position of the bed needed to be shifted slightly. and they all fulfilled their appropriate functions. Then the true son of the King. For the King had done everything with cleverness and wisdom. He commanded that everything be put in its proper place. "Now I understand. and so the lamp's position needed to be slightly shifted. It was needed only to lift up the flower and place it above. He looked further and saw." 124 . that this rose that was missing from the top of the chair. who would understand. and you are truly the son of the maid. And so. until the wise man would come. until a master of wisdom would come. in such a way that no one would understand the matter. such that no other would understand. And so with everything. said to the son of the maid. and would be able to switch and arrange everything in its proper order.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN would have the power of the instrument (that had the power to play when it was laid upon some animal). and then they gave him the kingdom. that I am truly the son of the King. And thus the birds and the beasts needed their position shifted slightly. and then the chair would have the power of the instrument.it needed to be put in another place. and then they all began to play the wonderful melody. and so with all of them. And so with the lion that stood on the road -. and so the table needed to be fixed slightly.
dealing with prayer. Blessed be He. They would eat the fruits. such as destitute people and the like. until he wanted to join forces with him. He would speak to them heart to heart. he would seize him and spirit him away to his camp located outside the settlement. he would take them away to his place outside the settlement. He dwelled outside of the settlement. but he often entered into the settlement. songs and praises to the Holy One. And they would deal there only with prayers. And all those who were attracted to him. etc. a river flowed. And in that place. He would expound in such words of arousal. about the purpose of life. who always devoted himself to prayer. and he was not strict about clothing at all. 125 . and in songs and praises. Blessed be He. to spend one's days praying to the L-rd. he was accustomed to enter into the settled areas all the time. songs and praises to the Holy One. and confessions and fasts and mortifications and repentance. That in essence. For the Master of Prayer had chosen a place outside of the settlement.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE MASTER OF PRAYER Once there was a Master of Prayer. typically people of low standing. to go in his way. Blessed be He. to tempt and draw people to service of the Holy One. and there were also fruit trees. He would engage someone in discussion. And so. and be involved only in prayer. until they made an impression upon the person. As soon as the person showed readiness to join with him. the only true purpose is to serve the L-rd all the days of one's life. And he would give them compilations that he had. and the like.
this is. to draw them to the L-rd. and take them outside of the settled areas. With one person he would appear a poor man. that is. 126 . and with another a businessman. Also. As if his intention was not at all the one described above. However. So the Prayer Leader went and tempted people to service of the Holy One. Until he would give one permission to enter into the settled areas. until the person could not at all understand his good intention. Blessed be He. another identity. Until there were found also among these people. And they would be involved with this all the time. And it was not at all possible to perceive that this was his intention. when he saw that he was not able to influence someone. For suddenly several people would be snatched out of the settlement. until it made an impression on the world. And the thing became well-known. to draw people to the L-rd. until it would become known. that suddenly someone would lose a son. to do the work mentioned above . Yet it was not possible to recognize or catch him. to draw people to the L-rd. he would deceive them until they did not at all perceive his good aim. he would entangle him and confuse him and deceive him. Whereas in truth. And so it would happen. when he spoke with people and saw that he could not influence them. and so on. and no one knew their whereabouts. For the Prayer Leader would act with cleverness. and he would continually draw people near. And so the Master of Prayer would be involved with this all the time. and they would not know where he was. as described above. and would change and transform himself with each individual with whom he spoke. For his entire intention was only this.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN songs and praises and the like. and with another. ones who were fitting to draw people to serving the Lrd. this was the only reason he spoke to people.
The entire hierarchy was based on the wealth of each individual. their behavior was very strange and bizarre. so that each one's value as a person was according to his wealth. if it reached the amount determined by them. And for these people. according to his level in serving the L-rd. and so on. One who had so many thousands or millions had one status.sometimes a rich man would join with him. who he drew close to the L-rd. while someone with a different amount had a different status. 127 . songs. etc. Each one according to his need. he would provide him. For everything was determined by a person's wealth. and confessions and fasts and mortifications and repentance. And they desired to catch him. needed to be dressed in clothing of gold. However. he would give it to him. Blessed be He. If he understood that one of his people. he would be King.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And the Prayer Leader would be constantly involved in this work. and he would have him go accordingly. until it made an impression in the world. Also. Now there was a country which was very wealthy . and praises to the L-rd. a great fast or mortification was more precious than all the delights in the world.everybody there was well to do. And one who had so many thousands or millions. And also the opposite . and he would take him out of the settlement. but it was not possible. the Prayer Leader had an ability to give every individual what he specifically needed. and he would see that this person needs to go about in torn and ragged clothing. and were involved only with these things prayer. And the Prayer Leader and his people lived outside of the settled areas.
according to the standards they had set. And they had standards. And if he had less than this. a man with only such and such wealth. specifying that if one had such and such an amount of money. Especially since the Master of Prayer said that they could potentially fall much further. So there were among them wild animals and birds . and say. would be called a human lion. Stories circulated in the world about this country. And so with the other varieties of animals and birds according to the person's financial limitations.for example. to bring the people back in repentance. and the level and standing of each person was determined only by money. and went on their own to this country.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And they had flags. Therefore they went to these 128 . "Who knows how far they can fall into error through this way?" There were people with the Master of Prayer. how much money a person needed to have in order to be given a certain flag. and the status that went with it. and he would have the status matching that flag. and he would have a status according to his flag. and the Master of Prayer would sigh about this. And they had it standardized. seeing that they had fallen so far in their lust for money. For they had great mercy on them. For the priority for them was money. he would be considered only an animal or bird. that did not ask his advice. And so the status of each person was determined by his wealth. he was an animal or a bird or the like. corresponding to how much money he had. he was a man. being that someone with a certain amount of money would have a corresponding flag. And someone with a different amount of money would have a different flag.
" They asked him why. and he also did not listen." The people of this country also agreed that they wanted to have stars and angels as well. the gold is drawn out of the stars. Upon coming there. for it was already rooted in their minds that the main point was only money. it must be that he has the power of that star. Therefore we all need to go to that country. etc. They began to talk to him in their usual fashion. saying that this was not the real purpose at all. Such that. For this dust that is made into gold. That is. and had been labelled as an animal). Therefore we have agreed to go to a country where a lot of money can be made. They tried talking to someone else. when a person gathered enough money according to the standards they set.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN people in that country. That is. it is due to the star that makes gold grow in dust-ridden places. and he responded. "I do not have any more time to talk to you. He did not listen to them at all. For since he had so much money. For the stars cause the gold to grow. and that the real purpose was only serving the L-rd. that can be made into gold and silver. when a person acquired enough money according to their 129 . One of the Master of Prayer's followers persisted in talking to him. assumedly some animal (that is. Thus they also said that there would be angels among them. for he was poor. hoping maybe they could bring them back to the good. so he himself is a star. and if a person has a great deal of gold. there is much dust there. and he said. they began speaking with one of them. he would become a star. "Because we are all now preparing to leave the country and go to another. he had the power of that star. a person of low stature. Because we have come to see that the main purpose is only money. Thus.
For if the g-ds were granting him so much money. So. So they did all these things as described. that they should not become impure. and lived according to the customs described above. Then all the citizens of the country went to live there. and one who had thousands and millions. so that no one could come near. so that it was impossible for any man to approach them. they posted guards around each mountain. so that an outsider could not penetrate. he would become an angel. therefore there was a threat of murder and robbery. And they dwelled there on these mountains. Further. that they should be elevated above the air of this world. he himself must be one. until through wealth many of them became g-ds. and they went and found mountains that were extremely high. according to their standards.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN standards. he would be a g-d. all according to wealth. For they would leave only one hidden path ascending each mountain. they searched out the highest mountains in the world to dwell there. on each mountain a gathering of them settled. That is. And they had many g-ds. And around the mountains they built strong fortifications. For the other people of the world were defiled compared with them. They sent out people to search out such mountains. and not in accord with their honor to have contact with common human beings.all according to degree of wealth. And since the main point with them was wealth. They also decided that it was not befitting them to dwell in the midst of this coarse world. And so they anointed kings . Until they concluded that also among them would be g-ds. and deep moats. For each one was ready to murder and rob in order to amass more money and become 130 .
for the main point with them was money. They sent out merchants to other countries in order to make profits for their country. And they established services that would be prayed and sacrifices to be offered to these g-ds. and sometimes themselves. For one who gave charity took away from the bounty that the g-d had given him. charity was certainly forbidden. the wealthy people who had gained this stature). They also had supervisors. For their entire faith was based on money.that a person have money . in order to amass money. clothing. they would protect the people from these crimes. For with money it is possible to buy everything . in order to merge with their g-ds. in order to 131 . murdered and robbed freely. And they would see to it that they did not lack money at all.food. Since that was the key point . money was their faith. And according to their outlook. and nevertheless. To the contrary. with which they served their g-ds (that is. and then be reincarnated as wealthy people. they were always attempting to add and bring more money into the country from other places. They had services. therefore it was clearly forbidden for them to give charity. Thus. For everyone had to display their wealth regularly. they believed this). sacrifices and incense. For money was their primary faith and spirituality.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN a g-d. They would even sacrifice people. and a person's main life-force is through money (for in their confused thinking. they said that since they became g-ds.and one who gave made a blemish in his money and lessened it. etc. the country was filled with murder and robbery. However. who were assigned to oversee if each one really had as much money as he claimed. For those who did not believe in the gods..
lest they be contaminated. And the righteous people of the Master of Prayer returned to their place. and everyone had a copy of the portraits. it was clear that the guards who stood at the foot 132 . And the guards. And so with the other levels that were determined by wealth. That is. After that. and told him about the great error and nonsense of that country . They would hug and kiss them.perhaps he could return them from their folly. nor stand in the atmosphere of this world. they could not mix at all with the people of this world. and make stars and angels for themselves. an animal would become a man. And sometimes. and their faith. were people of low rank. For the wealthy ones who had high standing because of their money. He answered that this was what he had been worried about from the start. lest they impurify them through their words (thus. he could rise from animal to man. and approached the guards posted around the mountain. And so the opposite: When one gained more money. and a man an animal.how they were very tangled in the lust for money. it could be assumed. and he decided to go there himself . for money was what they served. The Master of Prayer had great mercy on them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN remain on the same level. The Master of Prayer answered that he was afraid they would go deeper and deeper into error. when one lost his money. He went there. he would fall from man to animal. And they could not speak at all with the people of this world. That they were ready to leave their homeland. he heard that they had made gds for themselves. because they were allowed to stand in the atmosphere of the lower world. And they had portraits of those g-ds (wealthy people).
and he also did not listen to him. And he would invariably slip away. And the Master of Prayer approached one guard. with another. a pauper.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN of the mountain were of low rank). However. for they had already been sunken for a long time in their belief that the purpose was money. for he would change himself with each different person. and so all of them. for the affair had already become publicized in the world. 133 . etc. However. that someone would come to them and say such things. and he did not listen at all. he would appear a businessman. that totally contradicted their faith. and none of them listened. Thus he went to all the guards. And they would call him the Pious Master of Prayer. the main faith was based on money. even the guards had the portraits. and began speaking with him about the Purpose: Being that the main point is only serving the L-rd. and they would hug and kiss them all the time. they were not able to recognize or catch him. And it was a wonder to them. "Perhaps this is the Master of Prayer. prayer and good deeds. it was a wonder to them. And money is nonsense. They thought to themselves. But the guard did not listen to him at all. and they asked. So he went to a second guard and also said this to him. what does it matter how I did it?" He started to speak with someone about the Purpose. He answered them. When the people saw him. With one. For even with them." For they had already heard that there was such a Master of Prayer in the world. Then the Master of Prayer decided to enter the city on the mountaintop. and not the purpose at all. "Being that I have already entered. Torah. For they had already become immersed in their error. "How did you get in?" For it was not possible for anyone to enter. And so the second.
returned to their country. from small to great. So the merchants among them advised them: Being that they had been in a country. and he did not want money at all. and did not want it at all. and they would take animals (people with little money. That is. Even though they were willing to submit to him. And he went with his followers conquering cities. His approach was to send from his strong men to a country. until even the smallest among them was considered a g-d. While they were still far away . they heard that he despised money. Since this was opposite to their belief. and offer them to their gods. They became very afraid. When the people of the country would submit themselves to him. And the Warrior was drawing closer to them all the time. And the merchants of the country of wealth. and travelled in carriages drawn by angels. he would leave them alone. He wanted only their submission. he would destroy them. For to them. as was his custom. that is.fifty miles the country would already submit to him. So they were very frightened of him. and similar services. 134 . to give them the choices. only their submission. not knowing what to do. and several other strong men gathered around him. in money. were all tremendously rich. he conquered the countries. because he did not believe in their faith. They started to do services and offer sacrifices to their g-ds. who were labelled animals). If not. Thus. where everyone was a g-d. there was a Warrior. and he started to send his strong men.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN One day. all of the citizens. and a great fear fell on the country. So he went and conquered. they could not bring themselves to submit to him. this would be like suicide. and told about the strong Warrior described above.
to be classified as a g-d). for they believed that certainly they would have salvation from that country.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN according to their flawed thinking (for even the smallest among them had enough money. it could be said that they travelled with angels. And their carriages were drawn by angels . until the raiment of one horse was worth the value of one of their angels. for they had already been sunken in their 135 . and began speaking with him in his usual fashion. "It's all a lot of nonsense. Thus. The guard told him about the above-mentioned Warrior. saying. and they would certainly receive help. (All this was the advice of the merchants to their fellow citizens. however. for everyone there was a g-d. Also you and all your g-ds are really only humans and not g-ds.for their horses were adorned with abundant wealth.) And it was very pleasing in their eyes. So he went there. and He is the only One whom it is appropriate to serve. and that they were all very frightened of him." He spoke words along these lines to the guard. But the guard did not listen to him. The Master of Prayer laughed heartily. since all the citizens of that country were g-ds. Then the Master of Prayer decided to go back to that country perhaps he could still bring them back from their crooked ways. according to the standards. Thus. and came to a guard. There is One in the world. "What do your people intend to do about it?" The guard then told him of their intent to send for help from the country where everyone was a g-d. and only to Him is it appropriate to pray. and this is the main Purpose. For also the people of that country are only human beings like us. They would harness three pairs of angels to a carriage and ride with them. The Master of Prayer asked him. it would be well to send for help from that country. with gold and the like. and the Blessed Creator is His name.
Yet there is One. and opposing me is the entire population of the country. the Master of Prayer entered the city. And so all the guards gave this answer in the end. "But I am only one against the whole country. As for the Warrior. And so the Master of Prayer went and spoke to the second guard. But they did not listen to him at all. had gathered together. for they had all been sunken in their crookedness for a long time. he said wonderingly "Could this be the Warrior 136 . "But what can I do? I'm only one individual." as the other one had. etc. the Master of Prayer continued speaking to him for a long time. and how they wanted to send for help from the country where everyone was a g-d." This answer was somewhat of a comfort to the Master of Prayer. "They cannot help you at all. and not g-ds at all. Blessed be His Name. Until he began to doubt slightly. etc. and the words he had said this time. He laughed at them as well. He said to them that it was nonsense. saying that they were all gravely mistaken. for he saw that his words had had at least some influence on the guard. and began to talk with people in his usual manner. After this. until in the end the guard answered him. And they told him about the Warrior. And at first he did not listen. until they had started to make an impression in his heart. Nonetheless. apparently due to the above words that the Master of Prayer had spoken to him. Rather the Purpose was only to be involved in Torah and prayer.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN mistaken beliefs for a long time. for you are people. and became a bit more willing to listen. and they are people. and that this was not the Purpose at all. and in the end he answered. For the words he had spoken the first time to the guard. and spoke with him in the same way. that they were only human beings." etc.
at times a pauper. And the people of that country. etc. he spoke as described above.how all of them were gravely mistaken. and brought him to the ministers. they were well aware of this tactic of his. "What is this that you keep saying about the Warrior. there is One. for they are only people. And they commanded to follow him and catch him. at times he would appear to be a merchant. and he lost one of his warriors. and money is not the purpose at all. making a mockery of their faith. They asked him. etc. caught him. and saying that there was only one Gd. being that there was someone who was speaking such things. If this Warrior is the same one. And they thought he was mad. And in the matter of the Warrior.). etc. for they were all so immersed in mistaken beliefs about money. talking to each one as above. in a tone of wonderment: "Could this be the Warrior?" " He answered them. he said to each one as before. whom you believe are all g-ds they cannot help you at all. etc. However. They saw that this was undoubtedly the Master of Prayer. who started to speak with him. he went from one individual to another. "Could this be the Warrior?" And they did not understand his intent. even though he changed himself all the time (that is. "I was once with a certain King. to the point that someone who spoke contrary to their mistaken beliefs was thought to be insane. then I am 137 . And so. They followed him. So he said the same thing to them . who is the Blessed Creator. And they commanded to track him and capture him. for he was already a famous figure for them. And there was a great commotion in the city. And as for the Warrior. However.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN (the one that he knew)?" They did not understand the meaning of these last words.
mountains and other distinct entities. Which as a rule. in order to identify the essence of each item. And there were in the drawings names . and what will be after that . etc. all with the help of the hand.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN acquainted with him. if you want to send me to another city. and what is more: What you hold about the country where they are all g-ds . In my opinion. within the drawing on the hand there appeared names next to every item.this is nonsense. with five fingers. next to every item.that here is a certain city. as would appear on a geographic map. he had a picture of a hand. and all the lines that are normally on a hand. for they cannot help you. and everything that had been from the beginning of the world to the end. there is an identifying name. rivers. Just so. 138 . and next to every item was a title.just as on a map. bridges. And there were inscribed all the travel routes from one country to another and from place to place. every person in the country. And so. "The King with whom I was. in order that one can know what each thing is . of all the worlds. that this is such and such. cities. and that is such and such. is impossible for anyone to enter. and because of that I knew how to enter this city.it was all inscribed on the hand. that will be your downfall. had a hand . "How do you know this?" He answered them. And this hand was in fact a map of the world. "Also the details of all the countries. Also. For written on the hand was the map of every world with all their details. were all inscribed on the hand. if you depend on them. I would know how to get there." They asked him. and there is a certain river.that is. and all their experiences. were all written in the map.
" This was all wondrous in their eyes. on that same hand. and it was awesome to them. by which one can ascend from earth to heaven (for normally. And there were inscribed there all the paths from one world to another. For Elijah ascended to heaven using one route. and that was also written there. it appeared as it had been when it was settled. I saw that that country.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "And thus. before its overturning. and what was there now. also the overturning itself was illustrated. And they saw that his words were words of truth. and that route was written there. because the route is not known. and make from them a letter. in the case of Sodom. And there. For it is known. Also written on the hand were all the details of what had been at the Creation of the World. For it is known that on a map everything is displayed accurately. it was written there how to travel from one world to another. "You still only want money (in a tone of disbelief)? Do not talk about 139 . and also there appeared the image of Sodom after the overturning. and all those who come to it for help . it is impossible to ascend to the heavens. for they could sense words of truth. of which you claim all the citizens are g-ds. and what will be. that one can gather together two creases of the hand. And so the routes between all the worlds were inscribed on the hand. Hanoch ascended to heaven by another route. For example. and what it would be in the future.all of them will be disgraced and lost (all this the Master of Prayer said to them). Similarly.) Then they asked him. "Where is this king? Perhaps he can show us a way to find money?" He answered them. (Thus they understood that it would be impossible for him to have invented these words from his imagination. But on the hand was written the route from earth to heaven). what is. For there was inscribed on the hand what was. For there is a path and route.
and everyone agreed. and its face was like the sun. entirely beyond mortal beauty. "There once was a King and a Queen. "I also do not know about the King. I was also among the advisors. "And there was with the King an orator. he would laugh. the King showed him how to acquire the wisdom of oration. and she gave birth to a child. And there was great rejoicing. 140 . at a point where it was appropriate to laugh. such as speech and the like. He was a skilled and pleasing speaker from the beginning. When people were talking. For they perceived that he was extremely wise. This child was very. And this child was born with complete wisdom. songs and praises to the King. a speaker and master of language. Its hair was of gold. being that he had done us several favors. "Even so. I recommended that they give her the Warrior. very beautiful. and through this he became a very awesome speaker. and they had an only daughter. My advice was well-received. and so on. They married her to the Warrior. that is. for the King had a liking for me. who could speak and recite very pristine and wondrous words. thus it was fitting to give him the princess for a bride. with all the colors of the spectrum.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN money at all. conquering several countries. where is this king?" He said. that a match had been found for the princess. However. For they saw at the moment of his birth that he was completely wise. but I will tell you a story. and the eyes had their own radiance. only that he did not yet have the physical capabilities of an adult. they found advisors to help decide who would be fitting to marry her. When she began to come of age." They asked him.
The King showed the Warrior the way to this sword. as is known with this sickness. And the portraits illustrated how much the King and the Friend loved each other. the according result comes to the enemies .each edge according to its unique power. such that one who looked at them would be filled with an intense love 141 . "And the King had a faithful friend who loved him with a very passionate and awesome love. but the King showed him how to acquire might. and it melts their flesh. However. simply by the inflection with which the sword is swung. and they would take delight in the portraits in the times when they were apart. For when the officers leave. and this causes an immediate defeat. there are times when it is necessary to be separated slightly. And I as well: The King showed me the way to my affair.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "The King also had a Wise Man. He also was wise to begin with. But the King showed him how to acquire wisdom. everyone falls. all the officers of the armies flee. and it has three powers. For there is a sword that is suspended in the air of the world. and they have two powers. and thus they cannot succeed in it. And the portraits had the power. and through the second. When one raises it. Through one edge. So that. they become infected with cancer. showing how they hugged and kissed each other with great love. And so the Warrior had been a warrior to begin with. And they had portraits of each other. there is no one to lead the battle. it is still possible for the others to continue the fight. and I received from there what I needed. and through this he became a wondrous and awesome Warrior. until it was unbearable for them to be apart even a short time. And this sword has two edges. Nonetheless. even so. and through this he became exceptionally wise. and from that he received his great might.
and if this Warrior you have described is the Warrior of the King. Wilderness became civilization. all of us have become dispersed. the quality of love would come to one who looked at the portraits). the Warrior. according to the exchanges and shifting of places. and all the places of the world had been switched . (All this the Master of Prayer said to the people 142 . and civilization became wilderness. none of us were able to ascend to his place to renew his strength. Thus. It only entered and snatched away the child of the princess. "One day. to renew his power. . The storm scrambled the whole world. the impression that remains with each of us is also very strong. and land became ocean. for we had all ascended. the princess ran after him. we could not find them. The storm came into the palace of the King. and no one knew where they were. And we were not there during all this. and all the other of the King's people each one ascended to the place where he renewed his strength. and since then.sea to dry land. The time came for each one to ascend to the place where he would receive his power the Orator.it is certainly impossible to ascend through the first routes. there was a violent storm in the world. The whole world was overturned.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN (that is. Ocean became dry land. the Friend received his love from the place that the King showed him. none of us have been able to ascend to our place to renew our strength. each one to his place. In the midst of the upheaval ensuing after the stealing of the child. etc. Nevertheless. And also the Hand was missing. And also. he is certainly very powerful. until everyone was dispersed. For since the whole world had been jumbled. When we returned. Now one needs a new route. And so the Queen and then the King followed. and did not do any damage. Since then.
the people of the world began to consider who should be the King. 143 . until he reached the country himself. not letting him leave them (for perhaps the Warrior who was coming toward them was the abovementioned Warrior. He came to the Warrior's camp. They said. They held onto the Master of Prayer. an account of a violent storm that came to the world. He began to speak with one of the Warrior's strong men (that is. It transformed sea to dry land.)" When they heard his words.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN of the country of wealth. one of the guards).' Then they began to investigate what was the Purpose. It scrambled the whole world. in order to recognize through this whether he was that same Warrior (the Warrior of the King). The people were very frightened. and how did you join with this Warrior?" The guard answered him. The Master of Prayer went out to meet the Warrior. and dry land to sea. and asked the Master of Prayer for advice. "What is your occupation. and they divided into many groups. "Here is the story. etc. They investigated to know who would be fitting to become their king. There is in our historical records. After the commotion and noise died down. they were awestruck. and it overturned the whole world. He stood outside the city and sent in messengers. therefore the one who strives the most to fulfill the purpose should be the King. The Warrior went on and drew nearer. `Being that the main thing is the Purpose. and periodically sent messengers. to determine if he was the Warrior of the King. He said that they would need to scrutinize the way and behavior of the Warrior. with whom the Master of Prayer was acquainted). He asked the guard. and wilderness to civilization.
(All this was their foolish and confused reasoning. until they became a congregation. may G-d have mercy. Thus.) Until they agreed that the Purpose was honor. and they carried him along. For with all people.) Thus. This beggar was blind. so that he is honored. Even after a man's death. (And so all the groups had much reasoning backing their flawed and misguided beliefs. and the people went after him. it is as if they spilled his blood. and found people carrying an old beggar. and approximately 500 were following him. For the Purpose is honor. money and desires are not at all relevant to the deceased. one who pursues it and reaches it. For when a man is not given his honor. and he also was a gypsy. however Rabbi Nachman did not want to detail all the flawed reasoning of these beliefs. Therefore. So they went looking for such a man. for example. Even so they are very careful to honor the dead. and gives support to the worlwide will to honor. that it is possible. For he had many brothers and sisters and children from his friends. they needed to search for an honored man. For since he is an honored man. all gypsies. honor is the main Purpose. they are doing it for his honor. And so on with similar foolish reasoning. 144 . such a man is fit to be King. for all of them were of his family. that is. (And they say to him. who has honor. stooped over and dumb. when they say something against his honor. they are strict to give the deceased honor. that all of what they are doing. and pursues honor. honor is the main thing. such a man strives toward the Purpose and achieves it. to bury him respectfully and so on.) Even though after death. Therefore.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "One group said that the main purpose was honor. G-d forbid. and one who chases after honor. For some of them are so twisted. Some of them are described below. For they observed that honor was the most valued thing in the world. to truly be led astray by these false beliefs.
this beggar is a very honored man. "What is that screaming sound?" They answered them. And he commanded all the time that different bearers carry him. "That sound came from a man having slaughtered his father and mother. Being that also the land has influence." They then reflected. with all kinds of complaints. evil-tempered and jealous man they could find. and all that is in the world ." 145 . that decided that honor was the Purpose. and he is fitting to be King. looked for a land supportive of honor. the beggar found favor with this group. So they went searching. They asked. Thus.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "And he was very strict about his honor.grasses. And he also pursues honor. for he was illtempered and became wroth with them all the time. they agreed among themselves that the purpose is murder. For we see that all things in the world eventually wither and pass away. and all that is in the world it all must come to an end and pass on. the murderer. for such a man is closer to the Purpose (according to their warped understanding). plants. Thus. he is very active in bringing the world to its purpose. and they accepted him as King. and other lands are supportive of other traits. "Can there be a more ruthless and ill-tempered murderer than one who would kill his father and mother? This man has reached the Purpose. believing instead that the Purpose was murder. And they looked for the most murderous. Therefore. Thus. the purpose of everything is its termination. and heard the sound of a scream. for he is so strict about his honor. they thought. people. and was angered all the time. Thus. this group. who kills and terminates people. meaning that some lands are more favorable to honor. Thus. "Another group held that honor was not the Purpose. that he has achieved such honor. and found a suitable land and dwelled there.
He would be fitting to rule. And since a beautiful woman arouses the desire to settle the world. one who ate food more refined than other people . since they did not immediately find someone whose diet transcended the norm. "Another group said that someone beautiful was most fitting to rule. a master of languages who knew several. For what distinguishes man from the animals is that he can speak. that must be the main Purpose. So.the kind of place where murderers tend to live . because for this the world was created. and settled there. Also. For such a person is reaching the 146 . However. for example . it follows that she brings it to its Purpose.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN He found favor in their eyes. that someone with an abundance of food was most fit to be King. Thus a beautiful woman was fitting to rule. and constantly babbled with speech. "Another group said that the primary Purpose was speech. and chose a land supportive of their Purpose. And they looked for a land supportive of this. They searched for a land that was supportive of murder. "Another group said. For the main Purpose is to settle the world. They chose a beautiful woman and annointed her as their Queen. At that time. they temporarily chose a wealthy man who had an abundance of food. and they accepted him as King.and went there and dwelled there with their king. and chose a place of mountains and hills . the wealthy man would abdicate the throne. they chose for themselves an orator. and settled there.milk. until they could find someone more ideally fitting their qualifications.in order that his intellect not become coarse. So they accepted this wealthy man as King. Since that is the primary advantage man possesses.
and that he had no worries. for he had reached the Purpose.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Purpose. and he would be their King. Even though there was no reason or sense in their happiness. become drunk. he found favor in their eyes. for this was the main Purpose for them . that is. They would not let anything go to waste. and when they conquer a country they are happy. And he found favor in their eyes. They saw his great happiness. Even so. They accepted him as their King. and the dross was made into liquor. and spoke many tongues. thus being close to the Purpose. and be constantly happy. people are happy. "Another group said that the main Purpose was happiness. A person like this was certainly close to the Purpose (according to their confused thinking). this was their main Purpose: To be constantly happy 147 . and settled there with their King. This man was very happy (for he was very drunk). And he certainly ruled them with uprightness. they searched for a man who was always happy.to drink. with several other low-lifes following him. for they did not have anything to be happy about. vineyards and the like. the Purpose of everything is happiness. They went and found a shabby-looking person in a tattered garment. They went and found a crazy Frenchman. For when a son is born. Thus. when there is a wedding they are happy. and they accepted him as King. So. carrying a bottle of liquor. They chose a land supportive of their idea. who went about talking to himself. which was happiness. where wine was made. and talked so very much (for he talked even to himself). They chose a land suitable to their way. They asked him if he knew languages. and he certainly ruled them uprightly. and he replied that he knew several. Thus. for he was a master of language.
"Another group said the main Purpose was to give attention to one's eating and drinking. 148 . They looked for a master of prayer. "Another group said the main Purpose was wisdom. They looked for a master of wisdom and made him King over them. in order to strengthen the body. Then he told him that they (the warriors who banded with the above Warrior). were from the group of the bodybuilders. a giant.)" All this. They looked for a land supportive of this. and settled there. They searched out a land supportive of wisdom. with large limbs that he worked to strengthen. happy are they. Only this last group approximated the Truth.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN for no reason. (And the reader can understand for himself. He found favor in their eyes. Blessed be He. who accepted upon themselves the giant man as their King. They looked for a muscular man. was related to the Master of Prayer by one of the mighty warriors. and settled there. For enlarging the limbs is the Purpose. They chose a land supportive of this and settled there. in deeply entangled structures of thought. "Finally. So. For one with larger limbs has a greater portion in the world (for he takes up more space). that all the groups erred severely. The true purpose was only to be involved with praying to the Holy One. And they made him their King. such a man is fitting to rule. there was a group that said that none of these was the Purpose. and made him their King. and to be humble and lowly in one's bearing. and he is closer to the Purpose. for he was so large. and thus close to the purpose. So they went and found a very tall man.
according to their opinion that the main Purpose was to have large limbs. He entered the wagons following the group. he rode straight into the caravan and scattered them to all sides. who told all this to the Master of Prayer. He is not really interested in the world being subjugated to him. and mighty. entering it and eating everything in the caravans). he is the same one who is leading us now. Certainly the former King would give over the kingdom to a warrior of such massive proportions. And these warriors cast fear upon everyone. for he was most fitting to rule. They immediately prostrated themselves before him. in a campaign to conquer the world. who had asked him how they had banded with the Warrior. carrying food and and other supplies. that this mighty one was accepted by them as King.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Now. and he answered all this). who is your King?" The other answered. And it was very awesome in their eyes (his great might. a band of them set out with wagons following them. and ate everything inside them. for he has a different intention altogether (all these are the words of one of the warriors. the Warrior who had now become their King) that he has another intention in conquering the world. and that he was not intimidated by the caravan at all. Thus it was. Instead. He says (that is. "And he. they came across a particular warrior (the one who was now their leader). 149 . Anyone who passed them swerved to the other side of the road. for they were of giant proportions. During their journey. "What is the greatness of this Warrior. So the members of the band were frightened by him." Then the Master of Prayer asked. saying "Long live the King!" For they knew that a warrior such as this was surely fitting to rule. one day. he did not swerve to the side. When this warrior came toward their caravan.
but again could not find her. that after the storm had dispersed the Court of the King. That is. Now. he knew that this must certainly be the Warrior from the Court of the King.for they remembered the King and his company.thus there was weeping as well as rejoicing. For example. So this Warrior took his sword. (these are the three powers mentioned above)." 150 . Likewise he came to the places of all the company. So he asked if it would be possible to meet in person with their leader. and he gave permission. and they recognized each other. They rejoiced and wept . When he found that the King and all his company were missing. he understood that he had been in the place where each one was. saying how events had unfolded to bring them to this place." When the Master of Prayer heard this. and the Warrior returned from the place he had ascended to renew his strength. and cried about that . When it is raised. he came across all the company. Along the way. The Warrior recounted. they were tremendously happy that they had merited to come together. However. And so he came to another place. and understood that the King was definitely there. etc.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "There was one country which did not want to submit themselves to him. he came to a place. he could not search for or find him. They went and asked. "Only your place I did not come to. Then they spoke together. They answered that they would relay the request to the Warrior and ask his permission. his sword has three powers. and understood that the Queen was there. When the Master of Prayer came to the Warrior. all the military officers flee. he wandered off to wherever the road would take him.
and understood that the King is definitely there. For I came to one place and saw the crown of the King. I understood that the King's Wise Man was certainly here. including yours. "I passed by all the places. only that I could not find him. And so I went further. I went on and came to a sea of milk. which she cried because of all that had come upon us. only I could not search for or find her. I went further. and he had carved this likeness of the hand. and saw a stone on which was carved a picture of the hand with all the elements mapped on it. I continued on. and the overflow of milk had burdened her. I understood that the baby was definitely here. and saw arranged on a mountain. but I did not take any of them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The Master of Prayer said. who had stood and said consoling words before the King and Queen. However. but I was unable to find him." 151 . From these words was made the sea of wine (as it is written in Song of Songs 7: "Your mouth is like good wine"). The princess was definitely here. I continued and came to a sea of blood. and understood that this sea was certainly created from the tears of the Queen. For she had lost her son. So I went farther. and saw the golden hairs of the baby scattered. "Thus. Likewise. and from this was created the sea of milk. However. the golden tables and treasurepieces and other valuables of the King. only it was impossible to find her. I knew the Queen was there. but could not find him. and came to a sea of wine. and then turned to say more consolations to the Princess. I could not find him. and I knew that this sea had surely been made from the words of the orator. and understood that that sea was made from the milk of the Princess. and I understood that the Treasurer must certainly be here. it was impossible to find him.
for it would be impossible to bring them out of this condition. "What can we do with these people?" . The Warrior answered that he had heard from the King. and I knew it was certainly yours. but I could not find you. However. "I saw your bow. Immediately after entering. The Master of Prayer answered. with the intention that perhaps I will find the King and his Court. and the rest of the foolishness of these people. one who fell into this passion for money. I was extremely hungry. and entered it. and I took from the golden hair of the Child. the people of the country that had fallen so deeply into the lust for money. And now I am campaigning to conquer the world. it was impossible by any means to save him. I went on until I came to a caravan." Then the Warrior continued his story: "When I left there. and then I went onward. "I also passed all these places. The Master of Prayer asked the Warrior. and they are very precious to me.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The Warrior replied. And when I left that place. one could be retrieved from the passion for money into which he had sunk. Until they arrived at this nonsense.through that. it was possible to retrieve someone who had fallen into them. For I took seven hairs that included the full range of colors. to say that wealthy people are g-ds for them. So they certainly could not have an effect on the people of that country. until there remained nothing to eat. and sustained myself to what extent I could. who had asked the Master of Prayer to go to the Warrior on their 152 . And I sat in the place where I sat. and wanted to eat. As for the request of these people. So the Master of Prayer and the Warrior sat together some time. that from all the passions. With one exception: He had heard from the King. I forgot my bow there. they accepted me as their King. that along the way to the sword that had granted him his might . eating grasses and the like.that is.
So the Master of Prayer studied with them. until they became very awesomely righteous. the Master of Prayer convinced the Warrior to give them more time. his compilations. and they also prayed. Then he asked them. and turned them into completely righteous and great men. However. He stood to pray. and made him our King." When the Master of Prayer heard this. Then the Master of Prayer sent a letter to the Warrior. and they were frightened by him. the Master of Prayer saw people going along and praying. and each type chose which goal to pursue (as was detailed above in the account of the groups of mankind). and they saw the greatness of his level. and we looked for and found a Master of Prayer. 153 . Blessed be He.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN behalf. we chose to be involved constantly with prayer to the Holy One. he gave them more time. for this was also his desire. and immediately annointed him King over them. "At the time of the storm. and that he had become their King. the Master of Prayer enlightened them. For even before. enlightening them. for he saw the awesome level which he had achieved. when all the peoples were scattered. For their present King acceded the kingdom to him. and carrying compilations of prayers. On his way. That is. He started speaking to them. so that they would know of each other. he was very pleased. their eyes were opened. so he extended the time for them. He was frightened by them. and other matters. And the Warrior and the Master of Prayer gave signs to one another. When they heard his words. they had been righteous (for they dealt only with prayer). and revealed the order of his prayers. and the Master of Prayer went his way. to inform him how he had merited to find such people. "Who are you?" They answered.
For those who sent 154 . So they sent messengers there. to send to the country which was so immensely wealthy. they came across a man who walked with a cane. in which were embedded precious stones. They would certainly save them. making offerings and incense. they did not make offerings there. since they were all g-ds. and he showed them the cache. that everyone was a g-d. This man said to them. for this was certainly a g-d beyond all others. as described above. being that he had such extravagant wealth. even though according to their view. they had been warned not to make any offerings. for the cane surpassed all the wealth of all of them. and this cane was more valuable than all their g-ds together. and they became very afraid. However. when they had been sent on their mission. they would surely have been ready to offer themselves to him. For according to their understanding he was a g-d above all their g-ds. that he was a g-d beyond all others. And the deadline that the Warrior had set drew increasingly nearer. which was very valuable. and reciting their prayers directed to their g-ds. according to their foolish and mistaken conceptions. He also wore a hat. Along the way.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Meanwhile. Immediately they bowed and prostrated themselves before him. and it was more valuable than all the other g-ds. (This man they had met was in fact the Treasurer of the King). either those of their own country. The cane was made of precious stones. However. "This is such a novelty for you? Come with me and I will show you wealth!" He led them to the mountain where lay all the treasures of the King. They agreed that it was mandatory to follow the first plan. Immediately they fell prostrate before him. or even those to whom they were travelling. the people of the Country of Wealth continued in their ways and religious service. They did their services.
being that he was such a g-d. for he is a g-d greater than all the others. those sending them warned them not to make any offerings on the way. and all of them were great spiritual masters. 155 .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN them feared that if they made too many offerings. he could not as yet bring them back from their evil ways. For perhaps they would find some treasure along the way. So he commanded them to temporarily suspend the offerings). they should not offer sacrifices at all. For they were certain that with his help. and believed it to be a g-d. they would be left empty-handed. Then the messengers considered to themselves. However. with such great wealth. who this country had accepted as King). they asked the man to return with them to their country. Yet it was clear to them. (For in truth. the Treasurer was a very saintly man. Now this man (the Treasurer of the King. if one went to an outhouse. and found there a treasure. for he was from the Court of the King. and none would be left. and he agreed to go with them. For example. commanded that until a new order was established. since he has such immense incredible wealth. far exceeding all the others. And certainly he was disgusted with all the perverse customs and nonsense of these people. Therefore the messengers did not offer any sacrifices to the Treasurer. that he was a g-d above all others. and all the citizens were ecstatically happy that they had found a g-d such as this. Therefore. being that he possessed such incredible wealth. they might all begin to offer themselves to it. they would be fully redeemed." Thus. They reached their country. "Why should we go all the way to the country where everyone is a g-d? For with this man we can certainly be saved.
that I also met with our fine Master of Prayer. since they had already heard much reproach. until they had come to believe such nonsense. "Know. They extended the deadline further .that of the Master of Prayer and of the Warrior. Through that. Then they spoke together about that country. and the Treasurer was brought in to see him.that is. So he extended the deadline once again. one could be saved. as before.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The people of the country began to inquire about the Warrior who was threatening them. that they had become so immersed in the lust for money. The Warrior said to the Treasurer. and he gave permission. that someone who had fallen into the lust for money. He has already become a king (and they related to each other how they came to be here). The Treasurer also asked them. for they were already far sunken in it. However. They asked. but it did no help. The Warrior gave the same answer to the Treasurer as he had to the Master of Prayer: That he had heard from the King. 156 ." The Treasurer said that he had passed the place of the King and the others of his company. The Treasurer departed from the Warrior and returned to the Country of Wealth. and asked the guards if he could be permitted to see him. Then the Treasurer and the Warrior gave signs to each other. (The Treasurer certainly reproached them for their evil way. "Could this be the Warrior?" Then he went and travelled to the Warrior. how they had erred and become so confused. They recognized one another. as before. the Treasurer convinced the Warrior to give the people more time once again. however the places of two he had not passed . he could only be saved by the path that led to the Sword (in which place the Warrior had received his might). and their was much joy and weeping. They said they would go and ask him. both from the Master of Prayer and the Treasurer.
retrieve us from our mistaken way!" Even though they were holding onto their beliefs stubbornly.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN it confused them." And the Warrior disguised himself. and his intention was that perhaps along the way. He said that he would come as well. and had no desire to rectify them. The Treasurer set out. He gave them this advice: He explained to them the matter of the Sword from whence the Warrior receives his strength. But now. that the L-rd should grant them success in the undertaking. "If you are really sure that we are in such great confusion and error. to go with him to the place of the sword. "and through that you will be able to stand up to the Warrior. and thus they did. Then they decided that they should tell the Master of Prayer. The Treasurer informed the Warrior. as he went to join the Treasurer and the Warrior 157 . that they should find the King and his Court. And the officials went bedecked in expensive jewelry of silver and gold. they said to the ones reprimanding them. "Let us go together to the place of the sword. They accepted the advice. He told his followers to pray for him. they would be able to overcome their lust for money. that he was going with people from the country to the place of the Sword. still. The Warrior answered him. "I will also go with you. he would find the King and his Court. and they began to say. And they went together. and the people sent the officials of the state." he said to them. then take us out of our mistake!") And the Treasurer. "Please. who were as g-ds to them. being that he knew the power of the Warrior." His real intention in sending them was that through going there. For the Master of Prayer would always pray for this. so the people of the country would not recognize him. for that was the main priority for them. and he came to meet them. and from where he received his power.
However. and he gave permission. and there was much joy and happiness between them. and shortly after. since the storm that had 158 . who was the King of that country.said. and since this man was so amazingly wise. He answered that the Hand was with him. They asked the Wise Man. So he became King. if he knew the whereabouts of the Hand of the King. For this Wise Man was the same Wise Man of the King. these people had chosen wisdom as their goal. and came to one country. and the guards replied that they would relay the request and find out. when the people of the world were divided into the groups. for the priority for them was wisdom. For they weeped about how they would manage to find the King and his Court. "It appears that this is our Wise Man (the Wise Man of the King). There was surely much joy then . Then the three mentioned above . they found a very exceptionally wise man. who were regarded by the citizens as g-ds).the Treasurer. The Master of Prayer came to the Treasurer and the Warrior. So they came to the Wise Man. They asked the guards about the matters of this country. and the first king abdicated the kingdom to this one. They went on their way. he warned them especially. and they recognized each other. they made him King. There were guards circling the whole country. The guards answered that at the time of the storm. to pray all the time to find them. along with the g-ds (that is. They accepted a great wise man as their king. The three of them went together.joy and weeping. as before. the wealthy and prominent figures of the country." They asked if it would be possible to meet him in person. the Warrior and the Master of Prayer .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN to search for the King. and who was their king. They went and asked.
They said. He related. and the Master of Prayer). For they had chosen superficial wisdom and heretical thought. it would have been enough. (Also the Wise Man recounted to his companions. for it was appropriate only for the King to see. However. that he had heard 159 . he did not want to look at the Hand. he had passed the place of them all. Until the people of this country had found him and crowned him King. he needs to govern them according to their condition. and they needed repair and repentance. And at this time. and to bring them to the true Purpose.to bring them out of their folly. that since the time of the storm. and were in need of repair . But those that had sunken into the idol worship of money. Until in the course of time he would draw them to the Truth. even they had not reached the true Purpose. he carved a likeness of the Hand on a stone.since then." For they had strayed and sunken so very far. who had erred and fallen so deeply in the nonsense and idol worship of money. excepting the place of these three .the Treasurer. the Warrior. it was easier to bring them back from their mistaken ways and lead them to the Truth. And they asked the Wise Man how he had come to be there. For even the group that had chosen wisdom as the purpose. to bring them to the good. all the groups had erred and and strayed. in order to use it minimally for his objective. he had wandered (and during his wandering. and the King had disappeared . but he did not look upon the Hand itself at all. In truth. Then they spoke with the Wise Man about the people of the Country of Wealth. had fallen so far that it was impossible to bring them back. according to the way of their wisdom. "Even if we had only been (separated) and dispersed for the sake of this one country. From all these varied errors of the different groups.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN dispersed everyone.
They chose for themselves an orator. so the four of them went together. and came to a country. They went on. and they accepted him as King. and he was the Orator of the King mentioned earlier. The four realized that this was their Orator (the Orator of the King). So they continued. Later. and they continued on.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN from the King that the only way to save those who had fallen into the lust for money was by the Path to the Sword). as before. They answered that since the time of the storm. The guards said they would relay the message and find out. and also asked the guards about the nature of the country. they found a man who was a master of language and eloquence. being that he was such an accomplished speaker. So the Orator also joined with them. 160 . hoping perhaps they would merit to find the rest as well. For they saw that the L-rd was granting them success. and they had great joy and weeping. They went along. Also those foolish g-ds continued following them as well. and he gave them permission. So they requested to see him in person as well. and came to a country. They attributed this to the merit of their upright Master of Prayer. For the first king gave over the kingdom to him. and who was their king. They recognized each other. in that every time. a master of language. and who was their king. they had together decided that the Purpose was Speech. in the hope of finding the King and his Court. who was constantly praying for this. The Wise Man also agreed to go with them. Also there. they asked about the nature of the country. They went and asked. and through his prayers they merited to find their friends. a very awesome speaker. The four were brought into the presence of this king. for their king. they found another of their friends.
They asked her how she had come to be there. and came to another country. and they entered her presence. as described above (and the citizens of that country assumed he was a great drunkard. "Who is your King?" They answered that their monarch was a beautiful woman. and asked the guards. And he was the Loyal Friend of the King. for such a one leads to the Purpose. The companions requested also to meet in person with him. and they were brought to this king. They recognized each other. she had gone out in the midst of the upheaval. And the Loyal Friend went with the others as well. Later. For he was certainly an unparalleled drunkard. so the messengers went and secured permission. and they accepted her as Queen. as was explained above. For the Purpose is the settling of the world. And the band of friends understood that this was undoubtedly the Princess mentioned earlier. as he was sitting in a sea of wine. that since the storm which had snatched away the precious child. Permission was secured. and thus they made him king). She recounted to them. a drunken man who was always joyful. looking for the child.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN They answered that they were of the group that had chosen joy and drink as the purpose. They continued. and they recognized her as the Princess. without finding him. and this suited them better. Meanwhile. and also this time there was great rejoicing and weeping. the oversupply of milk 161 . Then they found one with amazing and unsurpassed beauty. The intensity of the joy that was there is impossible to imagine. They accepted as their king. so they accepted him as king. who had been sitting in the sea of wine created by the consoling words of the Orator. so they requested to see her in person as well. they found a man who sat in a sea of wine. At first they had a moderately beautiful woman for a queen.
And behold. There was great rejoicing among them. For the Warrior was her husband. And temporarily they had accepted some wealthy man as king. they went looking for the rest. and about his father and mother. the main Purpose was physical beauty. Afterwards. After this. the Princess who had here become a queen). Thus. now the husband of this Queen had come (that is. they had found a man who was sitting in a sea of milk. Then the Princess asked the Master of Prayer to come into her country and purify it from its deep defilement. in each case they created a religion out of that quality). they also believed that this was the Purpose (for each group that had chosen some evil quality as the Purpose. and also asked. For they were of the group that had decided that someone with an abundance of food. "Who is your King?" They answered that their king was one year old. they were certainly very defiled in this passion. etc. would be fitting to be king. So now the country had a King. and from that was made the sea of milk. and this pleased them very much. For in addition to the power of the passion itself. that is the King. so that they should not become too far immersed in this passion. Thus. For this man had lived all his life on milk. So they accepted him as king. whose diet was not comparable to that of ordinary people. they were sunken deeply in this. and they also wept about the precious Child that had been lost.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN was pressuring her. and his diet was not like that of ordinary people. Thus. the Princess asked that he go and purify them somewhat in the meantime. For since in that country. whose whereabouts were not known. Later. the citizens of this country had found her and made her their King. they called him 162 . They came to one country. Thus. she asked the Master of Prayer that he go and purify them a bit for the time being.
"one year old", for his diet was that of a one year old. They realized that this was the Child, and they asked to meet him in person. The request was sent and granted. They were brought into his presence, and they recognized each other. For also the Child recognized them, even though he had been very young when he had been separated from them. Nevertheless, because he was a complete genius from birth, for he was born with complete wisdom, because of this he recognized them. And they recognized him easily. And there was very awesome rejoicing. And they also wept, at still not knowing the whereabouts of the King and Queen. They asked him, "How did you come to be here?" He answered, that when the storm had come, and taken him away to where it took him. There he lived on whatever he could find, until he came to a sea of milk. And he understood that this sea was undoubtedly made from the milk of his mother, and that the milk must have pressured her, and from that this sea was formed. So he sat upon that sea, and was sustained by the milk, until the people of this country had come and made him their king. After this, they continued and came to a country, and asked, "Who is your king?" They answered, that they had determined that murder was the Purpose, and they accepted some murderer as their king. After that, they found a woman sitting in a sea of blood. They accepted her as King, since they assumed that she was certainly a major murderer, being that she was sitting in a sea of blood. They requested to see her as well. Permission was granted, and they were brought into her presence. And this was the Queen mentioned before, who had been crying constantly, and from whose tears were made the sea of blood. They recognized each other, and there was
great rejoicing. Yet they also cried, for they still did not know the whereabouts of the King. They went further, and came to a country, and asked, "Who is your King?" They answered that they had chosen an honorable man. For by them the main Purpose was honor. After this, they found an old man wearing a crown, sitting in a field. He found favor in their eyes, for he was a very honored man, being that he sat in a field wearing a crown. So they accepted him as king. The band of friends understood right away that this was certainly the King (their King, that is). They asked once again if they could meet with him in person, and permission was granted. They were brought in before him, and they recognized that this was the King himself. And the joy they experienced there, was beyond the capacity of the mind to comprehend. And the foolish g-ds (the wealthy, important people of the Country of Wealth, who were considered g-ds in their country), went along with them, but had no idea what was the basis of all this joy. And behold, now all the holy Court was gathered together again, and they sent the Master of Prayer to the various countries (the countries of the groups that had chosen bad traits as the Purpose) to repair and purify them, to bring them back from their foolishness - each country according to its foolishness and mistaken way. For all of them had erred and strayed, and now the Master of Prayer certainly had the power to bring them back, for he had received the permission of the kings of all the countries. (For the holy gathering of the King who had now been reunited, all of them were kings over the countries of the groups.) And the Master of Prayer went
empowered by them to purify and bring all the countries back in repentance. Then the Warrior spoke with the King about the people of the country that had fallen into the idol worship of money. He said to the King: "I heard you quoted, that through the path that I take to reach the Sword, through it one can bring back those who are sunken in the idol worship of money." The King answered that it was so. Then he informed the Warrior, that along the path to the Sword, there is a path to the side, and one comes by that path to a mountain of fire. On this mountain crouches a lion. When he needs to eat, he goes and attacks the flocks, and eats sheep and other animals. And the shepherds know about him, so they guard their flocks very carefully against him. But the lion pays no heed to them, and when he wants to eat, he falls on the flocks. The shepherds swing their clubs at him and make a great din, but the lion does not hear them at all, and helps himself to the sheep and the other beasts, and roars and eats them. And that aforementioned mountain of fire cannot be seen at all. And also along the way there is another path, and it leads to a kitchen, and in that kitchen are many varieties of food. And there is no fire in the kitchen at all, rather, all the foods are cooked by the fire on the mountain. And the mountain of fire is far from there, but there are conduits running from the mountain to the kitchen, and through this all the foods are cooked. Also, the kitchen is not visible at all, there is only an indication - birds gathered at the location, and only through that is it possible to identify the kitchen. And those birds flap with their wings, and so they heat up or cool off the foods. That is to say, through their flapping, they either increase or
diminish the fire, so that it will burn at the needed intensity. And they feed the fire according to the food being cooked: For one food, they fuel the fire to one extent, and for another food, another extent - all depending upon the food being cooked (all these were the words of the King to the Warrior). "Thus, take them (the g-ds of the Country of Wealth, who had accompanied them) in the face of the wind, in order that the odors of the foods of the Kitchen reach them. After that, when you give them to eat from the foods, they will certainly abandon their lust for money." Thus the King advised the Warrior. Thus the Warrior did. He took the high-standing people of the Country of Wealth, who were g-ds in their country. For those same g-ds had been here before, for they had come here with the Treasurer, as was described above. When they had left their country with the Treasurer, the people of the country had empowered them, that all they would do would be accepted by all. And all the citizens would be obligated to agree with all that they did (for they were considered as g-ds by the country). And there would be no possibility of change. The Warrior took these people, who were called g-ds in their country by virtue of their wealth, and lead them along the path, bringing them all the way to the Kitchen. At first, he led them against the wind, so that the odors of the foods reached them, and they began to beg the Warrior to give them from these foods to eat. Then he led them against the wind again, and this time they cried out that there was a terrible stench. Then he started again, leading them against the wind, and again the odor of the foods reached them, and once again they begged him that he give them from those foods. Then they began to smell the stench again, and cried out in
all the more so before the Warrior.you can see that there is nothing in the area to cause such a smell. As soon as they ate from them." Then they asked the Warrior to give them more of the food. he would rid himself of it. as recounted before). They tore at their faces. even before his friend. saying "Come with me! For now you do not need to be afraid of the Warrior (for all the people of the country had been afraid of him. It must be coming from you. For money was a great source of shame there. Then the Warrior came to them. casting it far away with great haste. and buried himself in it out of his great shame. He gave them of the foods.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN response to it. having sensed the disgusting quality of their money (for it truly smelled like feces). to take it back to their country. For they felt terribly embarrassed. Someone who wanted to insult his friend. Thus. they immediately began to cast away all their silver and gold. For they themselves already abhorred money. the Warrior gave them to eat from the foods. "This stench you smell . They were embarrassed before each other. For they had tasted of the foods from the Kitchen. having money was the greatest embarrassment. but they wanted to save the rest of their people from it as well." Then. 167 . For I am that Warrior. And anyone who still found in his possession some coin. they buried themselves out of their extreme shame. and could not raise their heads at all. and extracted them from their pits. and everyone who had more money. was more ashamed. Each one dug a pit for himself. For there. and no one could raise their head. and buried themselves. for there is nothing else here to cause such smell. The Warrior said to them. would say that he had a lot of money.
prayer. repentance and good deeds. and involved themselves only with Torah. were also embarrassed. 168 . and he purified them. Even the poorer ones. And the King who had been discovered by his friends ruled with authority. For those foods had the quality. Amen may it be His will. the people cast away their silver and gold. and he gave them repentances and repairs. truly like feces and waste material. who were referred to as "wild animals". that one who ate from them abhorred money. Blessed is Hashem forever. Thus they cast away their idols of silver and gold. the Master of Prayer was sent to them. at having considered themselves lowly because of their poverty. After that. For he would sense the full stench of it. and buried themselves in pits of dirt out of their intense shame. And the very wealthy ones and the g-ds were the most ashamed.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and they took it to their country. And immediately upon being given the foods. For now it had been revealed that money was the greatest embarrassment. And the whole world returned to the L-rd. Amen and Amen.
and I can see that in the future. Especially now. dramatic plays and the like. And when you will be happy. and all the dukes. it is a great joy. and they were all very joyful there." So the Prince accepted the kingdom with a mighty hand. every time a king throws such a party. Even if you will be sad. Also.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN THE SEVEN BEGGERS Let me tell you how happy they were. All the nobles of the kingdom were there. see to it that you do not become saddened at your fall from the kingship. since he was giving the kingdom to his son in his lifetime. and had very wise 169 . Be only happy. the whole nation was happy to see the King granting the kingdom to his son in his lifetime. For you are not worthy to be King if you cannot maintain your happiness when you fall from the kingdom. The King wanted to give the kingdom to his son in his lifetime. This Prince was wise. When they had become very lighthearted. All sorts of joys were found at this ball. There were all types of entertainment: Musical bands. I will still be happy that you are not King. a ball. I will also be happy. who had an only son. He appointed nobles. and loved wisdom very much. governers and soldiers. Certainly. "Being that I can read the stars. for it was a great honor to the King. Once there was a King. the King stood and said to his son. But when you will be happy. He threw a grand party. you will lose the kingdom. it was certainly a joyous occasion. And there was a very great happiness there. I will have particularly great happiness. dukes.
and he also became a heretic. so it did not harm them. that he would remember as described above. so that the common people could not understand it. "Where am I in the world. And because wisdom was so important to him. And because all of them dealt only with wisdom. And he highly valued anyone who came to him with a matter of wisdom. they all forgot the strategies of war. And because of their wisdom. everyone began to be occupied with wisdom . But the masters of wisdom and the Prince became heretics. Until all the citizens became masters of wisdom. Now. Someone who wanted honor. They drew the King's son to their thinking as well. The masters of wisdom in that country were wondrously great in wisdom. But as soon as he began to use his mind. he gave them money. these masters became heretics. For there was great depth and subtlety in the wisdom of the masters. because he had a good character. and had good and upright qualities. Until even the most minor among them would in another country be considered wiser than all. he gave them honor. all in reward for their wisdom.the whole nation took to it. and what am I doing?" He would sigh and moan that he had fallen to such depths and had strayed so far. He would grant them honor and importance for their wisdom. for they were involved only with wisdom. the heretical thinking returned to him and became strong again. for he was born with good. and would sigh and groan. But the rest of the people did not fall into heresy. each one what he desired. would occasionally reflect. and others importance and honor. To someone who wanted money. For some wanted to receive money in exchange for their wisdom. but as soon as he started to use his 170 . And so it was several times. He would sigh deeply.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN advisors. the Prince.
there was also nothing to eat.four or five years old.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN intellect. they passed through a forest. carrying sacks of bread. The children started to draw close to him. and a boy and a girl were lost: One parent lost a boy. They were still young children . and went on his way. a beggar approached them. He gave them bread. And they screamed and cried from the lack of food. Then he blessed them. Night fell. and one a girl. He asked them. After a time. But they were intelligent for their age. they finished the bread. the heretical wisdom returned and gained strength again. for you to come with me. how does he know where he is going? (In truth. He answered them. and they ate. He began to walk away. There came a time. And the children understood that the L-rd was watching over them. to give them food. Everyone fleed. and again began to cry for the lack of food. when an entire nation was expelled from its land. It was a wonder to them: If he is blind. In the morning. it was a novelty that such a question should occur to them. and they slept there. 171 .and he left them some more bread. After that. They did not have what to eat. for they were young children. and that He had arranged this blind beggar to come to them here. and they wailed and cried." In the midst of this. Then a beggar came to them. they noticed that he was blind. "That is one thing I do not want. and became attached to him. who was deaf. "How did you get here?" They answered that they did not know. and they begged him to take them with him. that they should be like him . for they were still young children. and it was a wonder to them as was said above). In the course of their escape.old like him .
They followed it until they came to a village. and it went as before.all as before. and he also left them bread. and the people there had pity on them. and he refused. because of his stuttering. And they went to fairs. They then went to another house. Then came a beggar without hands. He also gave them bread. and went to all the celebrations as well: To circumcisions and weddings. and went from house to house. Then a beggar came to them. But he also gave them bread to eat. and started to head toward a settlement. They saw that it went well for them. and they agreed that they would always stay together. and he stuttered in his speech. and they went thus from house to house. 172 . who had poor speech. and left them. and left them. They made large sacks for themselves. He could understand them. and gave them bread. and went his way . until they came to a path. They entered a house. and began wailing again. And he also blessed them that they should be like him. After that. and went his way.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN They began to speak to him. And he also blessed them that they should be like him. they finished the bread. and after that a beggar without feet. Then came a beggar whose neck was crooked. Once again. they finished the bread. Then came a beggar with a hunched back. going door to door. and they also gave them bread. and eventually they went to another town. All of them gave them bread.all as before. and he motioned with his hands that he could not hear. They went to many cities. and sat with the beggars. They asked him also to take them with him. so that they could not understand what he was saying. They began speaking to him. but they could not understand him. and blessed the children that they should be like them .
All the beggars went there. and now I am giving it to you as a complete 173 . One time there was a big fair in a major city. and the two children went there as well. And they brought them under the wedding canopy. and covered it with reeds. blind beggar here. The bride and groom were also very happy. Everyone gathered inside. For they all knew them. and decided that they would wait until the celebration of the King's birthday. and from whatever food would be granted to them. And so it was. Then they began to remember the kindnesses the L-rd had done for them in the forest. They cried and longed intensely. Then they went and dug a great pit. As soon as a few of the beggars suggested this. I have come to the wedding. large enough for a hundred people. Until these children became famous among the beggars. from that they would make the wedding feast. he appeared. And I am giving you a wedding gift. dirt and refuse. and also gathered the bread and meat remaining after the feast. All the beggars went to the King's feast. very joyful. immediately after they began longing for the blind beggar. All the beggars would go to the feast. "Here I am. and asked for bread and meat.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN sitting on crates with collection bowls in their hands. that you should be old like me. saying. and held the wedding for the two children. But how would they make the wedding?! They discussed the matter. and the match was settled. It occurred to the beggars that they should match the two children to be married to each other. it found favor in everyone's eyes. and knew that these were the children who had been lost in the forest. who brought us bread in the forest?" Then. saying "How can we bring the first. For at first I blessed you so. And they were all very. See.
and climbed to the top of it. I do not say all this in my own name ." It was a wonder to them. but the people were saved. there were wise ones among them. There were both young and old ones there. Even so. saying. He said to them.everything they needed. drink and clothing . 174 ." Then they honored the second one to speak. One time a large number of people set out in ships on the sea. Now I will tell you a story (all these were the words of the blind beggar). But I also remember when the light was burning. because all the time of the world was for him only the blink of an eye. There they found an abundance of food. said "That is an ancient story?! I also remember that story. Therefore. "This story is even older than the first. and I have not started to live at all. for he did not look upon the world at all. "What can I say? I remember when they cut the apple from the branch. who was younger than the first. what he remembers from when his memory first started to function. looking upon this world was not relevant to him at all). And you think that I am blind? I am not blind at all. and they said." No one understood what he meant. And I am very old. They agreed that each one should tell an ancient story. that he remembers from his earliest memory. However. all the delights in the world.for I have the approval of the Great Eagle. There they had everything good. and they honored the oldest one to speak first. It is only that all the time in the world does not count for me more than the blink of an eye (and thus he appeared blind." The others responded. yet I am still a young child. A storm wind came and broke apart the ships. I am very old.that you should live a long life like me. The second. That is to say.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN gift . They came to a tower. "This is surely a very ancient story.
The eighth said that he remembered the appearance of the fruit before it was drawn upon the fruit. saying to them. for in truth he was older than all of them." The fourth one. And the oldest among them was the youngest of all. who was younger than the first. And the extremely old man came out last. "I remember when they planted the seed from which the fruit grew. said. I said to all of them. Then they invited the third to speak. when the fruit began to be formed. First he brought out the infant. That is.the oldest ones should come out first. a great eagle came and knocked upon the tower. who was still younger. said.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN that this second one. (that is. who designed and produced the seed. He brought everyone out of the tower. The third. "Give up being poor. were older. "This is an even older story. that an infant would remember more than all of them. said. older than all the others!" And it was a great novelty to them." They answered. remembered a story older than the first. and I was also there. and use them." The fifth. "I remember the sages." The sixth said that he remembered the taste of the fruit before it entered the fruit. he brought out first. saying "This is a truly ancient story." They responded. "I remember all of those stories. return to your treasures. as was explained before. And I. I was then a tiny infant. In the course of this. the blind beggar who was telling all this). all who were younger. who was younger. 175 . Thus. who was yet younger. For all who were younger. The seventh said that he remembered the odor of the fruit before it entered the fruit. "I remember when the fruit started to be built. And I also remember "nothing at all"." He told them to exit the tower according to their age .
"I will explain the stories that each one told. The one who said he remembers when they cut the apple from the tree. the spirit and the soul .that is higher than all else.the aspect of "nothing". he meant the moment when the seed passed through during the intercourse of the parents. which are really your bodies which were broken. he meant he remembers when they cut his umbilical cord." This shows that I have the testimony of the Great Eagle. the great eagle said. return to them and bless them. and yet I am still young. I am also so. The one who said he remembers the sages who produced the seed. that I live a long life. who was telling all this). "Return to your ships.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The eagle said to them. Now. And the image. that had been a child then. The one who said he remembers the time when the fruit started forming. The one who remembers the taste." And to me (the blind beggar. The second who said he remembers when the light was burning. the creation of the fetus. For you are `very old and yet still very young'. he was referring to when the body started to be formed. He meant he remembers when he was still in the womb. "You come with me. at the time when they cut his cord). The eagle said to them. And the infant who said he remembers nothing . The one who remembered when they were bringing the seed to be planted. For he remembers what came before the life-force. for I am very old. for you are like me. The odor refers to the spirit. he also remembered this story that happened at the moment of his birth. the soul. he meant the time when the drop of seed was still in the mind (for the mind produces the seed). (That is to say. that is referring to the vital life-force. 176 . and a light was shining above his head. that they be renewed and rebuilt.
"Now I am bestowing on you as a gift. And even all the celebrations in the world are due to lackings . and they have massive treasuries. the couple and their friends participate in a festive meal). is that they eat bread and drink water. For at first I blessed you with this. That is. from the Country of Wealth. that you should live a good life like me. and said. They cried and bemoaned. that I should listen to their lackings. "How can we bring here the deaf beggar who sustained us?" As they were longing for him. And I have testimony to this. as a wedding gift.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And now I am giving you my long life.each one cries about what he lacks. the six days following a wedding are considered a continuation of the wedding. that I live a good life. he appeared. "I live a good life. And its good life. that you should be like me. But now I am giving you my good life as a full wedding gift.the person is joyful about a lack that has been fulfilled. For all the voices come from lacking . that I should listen to their lackings. the couple thought about the second beggar. immense happiness and gladness. and each one described the quality of his good life. that is better than your good life. And for me." Then he recounted: For there is a country with great wealth. saying "Here I am!" He fell upon them and kissed them. who had also given them bread in the forest. I spoke up and said. On the second of the seven days of celebration (According to Jewish custom. the whole world amounts to nothing. Here is the 177 . And you think that I am deaf? I am not deaf at all! Only that the whole world is not worth anything to me." And there was overwhelming. For I live a good life that has nothing lacking. and each one boasted about his good life. One time they gathered together. the deaf one. and on each day.
was not present. In the same way. And through this he despoiled the taste. And tending the garden was a gardener. So that all the varieties of scents smelled like galbanum (a foul smelling plant). And all that had been in the garden. all in this one garden. following the commands of the cruel king). let us see if you can save a particular country. all the colors. inevitably withered and was lost. Then a cruel king came to this country. Also. And the people of the country lived a good life due to that garden. the people were able to survive from the weeds in the garden. And I warn you. the corruptions of that country could harm you as well. and all the species of flowers in the world. There was a country with a garden. let us see if you can save them. So that through what they did there. that if you do not save them. they despoiled the scents. He only left three groups of servants in the country. In this garden were fruits with every kind of taste in the world. but he could not do them any harm. And so they corrupted the sense of vision they darkened the eyes of all. there were all the varieties of scent in the world. that is the gardener. whatever taste a person wanted to taste." So these wealthy people went to that country. Also along the way. he would only taste a rotten carcass. Even so. if you really live a good life. So now. Then the gardener was lost. and ordered them to follow the instructions he would give. Not that he ruined the garden.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN proof: If you really live a good life. And all the varieties of images. each one of them lived his 178 . and I also went with them. as if there were dark clouds (it was all through what the servants did. So he went and ruined the good life that the country had had from the garden. since the overseer.
I saw there that people would come and say various 179 . to save their country." Then I said to them (the deaf beggar said to the wealthy travellers): "Look." The wealthy ones answered.) And so their damaged senses were restored. your senses are already failing.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN good life. They sent messengers to that country of wealth. and gave it to them. Let us send for help to this country. how do you expect to be able to save them?" Then I took my bread and water. for each one had his own treasury. and they sensed the corruption of their senses. their sense of taste and their other senses also began to fail. But as they neared the country. and they certainly will save us. I said to them. what will be when you enter? And furthermore. I came to a certain city. and I will go with the messengers. "Being that there is a country of wealth. And it appears that our lost gardener (who helped us have a good life). that they should save us. before you have entered the country. The wealthy travellers asked the messengers." And so they did. For you cannot save them on your own. began to reflect on how to repair the corruption of the senses that had befallen them. you need me. And they sensed in my bread and water all the tastes (and even all the smells. Meanwhile. etc. "If even now. And they concluded. who also have a good life. and we were headed toward you." So I went with them. Stay here. and the messengers came upon the group from the wealthy country that was headed toward them. "We ourselves are from that country. Once in the country. the people of the country wherein was the garden. is from the same root as these citizens of the wealthy country. "We are travelling to the Country of Wealth. "Where are you going?" The messengers replied.
Then I went onward to another city.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN words of mockery. One would say a profanity. and smiled and laughed. So they brought their case to the new court. Then they left the court. and wanted to go to another. and then the one he had favored would favor him. I saw that they were full of sexual immorality. So they chose another court. and they chose yet another court. and so on. There was illicit sexuality among them to the point that it became acceptable to them. one would laugh and another would derive some gain from it. and afterwards one of the defendants began arguing with someone else. another would say the same in more refined language. They went to court for a judgment. until it became a large gathering. I saw two people arguing over some business dealing. And I saw that all this was because there was no truth there. And so they went on bickering and squabbling one with another. and continually chose new courts. and began arguing again. And all of them chattered words of ridicule. For they spoke foul language among the people. This court gave them a ruling. I focused my attention more closely. as mentioned above. and through this the sense of taste was corrupted. Then other people would join up with them. scent and vision had been corrupted. and they went and sabotaged the state. and the court ruled that one was guilty and the other innocent. After that. and heard they were speaking profanities. They said they did not want to accept that court. I told them it was because of this that their taste. So that all the tastes were that of 180 . First a judge would pervert the judgment and favor one over another. For everything here was based on bribery. and there was no truth among them. For that cruel king had left behind three groups of servants. until the whole city was brimming with courts.
and through this the sense of smell was corrupted (look at other sources from Rabbi Nachman. So they did accordingly. Now. that I live a good life. the country was repaired through him.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN a carcass. when you have cleared the country from these three sins. and through this. a commotion arose. and to search after these evil ones and expel them. I give you my good life as a wedding present!" Then there was very great joy 181 . was there). which explain that through sexual immorality. And upon seeing him. work to rid these three sins from the country. And so also. for "Bribery blinds the eyes of sages. the sense of smell is damaged). And they cleared the country of the three sins. the peoples' eyes were darkened and vision was corrupted. "How did you come here?" Until they identified all the servants. I said. not only will the taste. this madman who goes about saying he is the gardener. Also the deaf beggar. who was telling the whole story. People started asking. for I repaired that country. and throws stones at him and throws him out . They would seize some man and ask him. vision and scent be repaired. and began to purify the country of these three sins. they brought bribery into the country. they brought sexual immorality into the country. Thus. They searched for the servants of the evil king. "Could it be that in spite of everything. I have the testimony from that Country of Wealth. "That is undoubtedly the true Gardener" (Thus. but also the lost gardener will be found again. Presently." Further. and everyone thinks he is mad. Then.) Thus. before those who had overseen the fixing of the country. and banished them.could it be that nevertheless. perhaps he is the true gardener?" They sent for him and brought him before them (that is.
(Thus. to the point that there is no one in the world who would not want to listen to me. and gave their wedding gift. 182 .) The first one gave them long life. and another about weapons of war. which are not praises to the Holy One. "At first I blessed you that you should be like me. And in these riddles and songs that I know are contained all the wisdoms. One of them boasted that with his wisdom. with what he had at first blessed them. He also said to them. which did not have perfection. now gave it to them as a gift. "For one time. For he had difficulty speaking the words of this world. my speech is not impaired at all. I am a wondrous orator and speaker. and another boasted of another type of metal. And I have a testimony for this from the great man called the True Man of Kindness. all the beggars came to the wedding. and the second gave them good life. and began crying and longing. all the sages sat together. It is only that the words of this world.) But in truth. which is more valuable. "How can we bring the third beggar here. Another one boasted about inventing gold. (Therefore he seemed to be speech-impaired. And I can recite wonderful riddles and songs. On the contrary. And you think that I have a defect in speech? Not at all. Blessed be He.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN and gladness there. through means of alchemy. now I am giving it to you as a wedding gift. On the third day. Each one. and each one gloried in his wisdom. he appeared. the one with the impaired speech?" In the midst of this. the couple remembered. are not perfected. saying "Here I am!" He fell upon them and kissed them. he had invented iron. Another claimed he knew how to make those metals. And there is an entire story to this. Another boasted at having invented silver.
Even so. For all the wisdoms are assemblies (thus. according to the creation that was on that day. such as metal forging and gunpowder. a wisdom is taken from the day on which the thing from which the wisdom is assembled was created). "This one is wiser than me. to gather all the wisdoms into one hour. and said to him (that is. I am as wise as any day you choose. if the last sage was as wise as any day you could choose? For this. and they will not amount to more than an hour. Then one of them spoke up and said. And the one with the heavy speech goes and gathers all the kindnesses of truth." They did not understand what he meant by "wise like the day". But I am wise as an entire day (all these were the words of the last sage who spoke). 183 . Now it may seem difficult: How could the one who asked the question be wiser.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Another boasted of another wisdom. All the same. it is possible through wisdom. Even though each wisdom is taken from a different day. "I am wiser than you." Then I spoke up. the one with the speech defect said to the last sage): Like which day?" The last sage answered. For this True Man of Kindness was in fact a very great man. "All your wisdoms can be gathered together. He explained. for I am wise like the day. because he asks which day. And time is principally created by kindnesses of truth (for time itself is a creation). For there are a number of inventions that came to the world through wisdom. and brings them to this True Man of Kindness. and so on. And each one boasted of his wisdom. there is an entire story. And the one with the heavy speech goes and collects all the kindnesses of truth and brings them to the True Man of Kindness.
The world itself in its entirety has a heart. And if it ceases looking at the Spring. in its moments of relief. and then its 184 . Then it has some relief. it would lose sight of the mountain face (this can be understood from simple experience). Even then. and moans. it gazes at the Spring and longs for it. and protects it from the sun. And when it stands opposite the mountain. to come to the Spring. But as soon as it would try to approach the mountain. And this Heart stands facing the Spring. Now. And this heart of the world is a complete body. and cannot look at the Spring. every thing has a heart. Also. that when it wants to go and approach the mountain. to come to the Spring. and craves for it constantly. it loses sight of the slope. and from the stone flows a spring. it has more heart than the heart of any other. with which it constantly desires and longs. For it stands always opposite the Spring. and on it stands a stone. if it longs so passionately for the Spring. Why does it not go there? The answer is. and the Heart of the World stands at the other end. The second weakness is from the intensity of its yearning and longing. then it sees the face of the mountain. and continually yearns. etc. the question can be asked. And this heart has two weaknesses: One. the Spring yearns to come to the Heart. With an overwhelming yearning.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN And there is a mountain. a great bird comes and flaps its wings upon it. for the Spring. and then it would not see the Spring. for its primary life comes from the Spring. with a face and hands and feet. and cries out. And this mountain with the stone and the spring stands at one end of the world. So. And when it needs to rest a bit. because the sun pursues it and burns it (for it longs and desires to go and be by the Spring). in which lies the Spring. it will die. very intensely. But the toenail of the foot of this Heart of the World. with expiration of the soul. It cries out passionately. so that it will regain its breath.
who was wise as any day one would choose. containing within them all the wisdoms. G-d forbid). near the day's end. and then the whole world will be annulled. the one with the impaired speech. this Spring has no time. Heaven forbid. he was wiser than the previous sage. So then the Spring has time again.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN soul would expire. And certainly. For the Heart is the life of all things. is the one day that the heart gives it as a free gift. So it stands opposite it. And there are differences between the days: There are the distinct days of the week. with great love and very powerful yearning. For I go and gather all the Kindnesses of Truth. the True Man of Kindness gives one day as a free gift to the Heart. Now. For all time and days are created by him. the Spring will run out of time and expire. there is no existence possible without the Heart. Thus. the Spring and the Heart bid each other farewell. And if this Heart were to die. and then there are the days of the new moon. G-d forbid. and start to recite beautiful riddles and songs to each other. it is all through me (the beggar with the impaired speech. it also goes with magnificent riddles and songs. it cannot go to the Spring. When the day draws to a close (and when the day ends. Then the Heart gives the day to the Spring. and the festival days. The only time that the Spring has. G-d forbid. And all the time of the True Man of Kindness. And when the day goes back to the place from which it came. from which are created Time (therefore. and then the heart will die. for it is not within time at all. And the True Man of Kindness oversees this. who gathers all the Kindnesses of Truth from which 185 . the entire world would cease to be. who was telling all this). And when the day comes very near to its end. Then. and yearns and cries.
When the celebration of that day ended. 186 . In the midst of this. I have the testimony from the True Man of Kindness that I can recite riddles and songs containing all the wisdoms (for all the time. It is only that there are vapors of this world. for he twisted it away from the vapors of this world. I have a very straight and beautiful neck. Thus.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN comes Time.I can produce all of them with my voice. Now I give it to you as a wedding gift. I give to you as a complete wedding gift. comes to be through me). it is all through the one with the heavy speech. and through this the world is sustained. I have a very beautiful and wondrous neck. and the Heart gives it to the Spring. And now. and brings them to the True Man of Kindness. the main creation of Time." And there was very great joy and gladness there. saying "Here I am! At first. Yet in truth. he suddenly appeared. they began yearning again. that you will be like me. with the riddles and songs. and in the morning. this time for the beggar with the crooked neck. that you should be like me. And I do not want to exhale any breath into the vapors of the world (and thus his neck seemed crooked. and did not want to exhale any breath into them). Thus. they slept the night. And all the voices of the world which are voices without words . For I have a wonderful voice. with the riddles and songs containing all the wisdoms. To the contrary. For I have a remarkable neck and voice. I blessed you that you should be like me. And you think my neck is crooked? It is not crooked at all. And the True Man of Kindness gives a day to the Heart. And I have testimony to this from "that country".
the men. and the members of the musical bands. and another boasted about his ability to play another. There is no child there who cannot play an instrument. women and children. and another that he could create that of a different instrument with his. it is impossible to sleep. One said he could create the sound of a certain instrument with his voice. The sound could melt a stone. In both of these countries. The youngest child there would in another country be considered a great master of music. And the two countries are a thousand miles apart from each other. Here is the proof: If you are such masters of music. One time all the sages of the country gathered together.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "For there is a country where they are experts in the discipline of music. Everyone there is involved with it. and I said to them: "My voice is better than yours. even young children. the voice of the wailing is very intense. For in the night. and because of this. The sages and the king of that country. Yet another boasted he could create the sounds of several instruments with his voice. One said he knew how to play on such and such an instrument. everyone wails . are all great masters of this discipline. I was also there.men. see if you can save these two countries. and so on. they all begin to wail . One claimed that he could create with his voice the sound of a drum. Another claimed he knew to play all the instruments. and each one boasted of his musical talent. when night falls. These two countries are a thousand miles apart from each other. For when night comes. women and children (and so it is in both the countries). One claimed he knew how to play several instruments. 187 . Another said he could create the sound of a harp.
Then the one with the crooked neck said." "For there are two birds. They searched for a long time. the two birds start wailing with an intense cry. everyone began wailing. "So you know?" He said. everyone wails. The female was lost. let us see if you can save these two states. For when you come near. they did not want to believe him. So they all became inspired to go. and they are the only ones of their species in the whole world. or if at least you can produce their voices (that is. They went there (to one of the two above-mentioned countries). each one wailing for its mate. as recounted above. And when they arrived." However. One of them made his nest close to one of the countries. "Will you take us there?" He answered that he could lead them there. "Certainly I know. That is the wailing sound that is heard in these two countries (and because of that sound. Not actually adjacent. and asked. a male and a female. There he made his nest. and night fell. if you are all such great masters of music. until they lost their way. and no one can sleep).THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Now. "Would you take us there?" He answered that he would. and the male went looking for her. tell me from where does this wailing voice come?" They asked him. And so the female made her nest adjacent to the second country. you cannot go there. if they would be able to imitate the wailing sound heard there). They sages also joined in the wailing (and they saw from this that they could not save the countries). So they stayed where they were. When the night falls. And she searched for him. and saw that they would not be able to find each other." They asked the one with the crooked neck. and made nests. "However. "At the least. only close enough so that the voice of the bird could be heard in the country. 188 .
" However.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN you will not be able to bear the wailing sound. "I can. you cannot bear it. it is impossible to bear the joy that is there. And it is impossible to go there because of this. that in the place where I am. For in the day. only when one comes near. So when you get there. and sending a dog to fetch what he had shot. That is to say. with very great encouragement and joy. and they console and cheer both of the two. Likewise. so that it will reach close to the place of the female. And the dog thrashed about and scrambled ahead through the snow. Only in the far distance it will be heard. 189 . And the voice of the birds who encourage them cannot be heard from a distance." Then the sages said to the one with the crooked neck: "Can you repair this?" He answered. it will not be heard at all. I can also throw voices. and tell them consoling words that there is still hope for finding the other. I could throw the voice of the female bird. But the wailing of the couple in the night can be heard from afar. There they heard the sound of one opening a door. so that it would reach close to the place where the male is. I can throw the voice of the male. who would believe this? So he led them to a forest. And in the day (for it is only possible to go there in the day). you will not be able to bear it at all. for I can produce all the voices in the world. Then they heard him shooting something from a rifle. And I would lead them to each other through this (and through this all the rest would be repaired). For even here. And they heard the bolt slam shut. and you all join in with the wailing. closing it again and locking it with a bolt. Until it is impossible to bear the intensity of the joy there during the day. I can utter the voice in such a way. Thus. many birds gather around each of the two birds who are mates.
Each one of them claimed that he had the aspect of the "small which holds within it the great". I have such shoulders. he would be able to repair the situation described before). Neither did they hear a sound coming from the one with the crooked neck. To the contrary. that you should be like me. saying "How can we bring that hunchback beggar here. (For he threw all these voices. So they saw clearly that he could create all these voices. For one of them claimed that 190 . And they remembered the beggar with the hump. And they longed passionately. Now I am giving this to you as a wedding present. saying "Here I am! I have come to the wedding. There was one that they ridiculed and laughed at. On the fifth day. However. "For once there was a discussion. And I am not a hunchback at all. he appeared. for if he were here. and thus they heard the sounds. Thus. And I can create all the sounds of the world. And now. I am giving this to you as a wedding present." And there was very great joy and gladness there. and also to throw them.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN The sages of music heard all this. I have testimony from that country. that I have a very wondrous voice. He said to them. not seeing anything. and their words were accepted. Thus. the joy would be very great!" In the midst of this. hugging and kissing them. and looked around. without perceiving their source. And I have a testimony upon this. in which people were boasting of their ability in this quality. they were also very happy. I possess this quality to a degree greater than all of them." He fell upon them. "At first. and the others boasted of their possesion of this quality of the small that holds within it the great. that they have the aspect of "the small which holds within it the great". I blessed you that you should be like me.
as described above. with all their needs and customs. it is the aspect of the small which holds the great. "For once I saw a mountain. saying that his people were nothing and he was nothing. for his mind carries so many people. upon which was heaped much garbage and waste. and all their being and movements . Another one said he had a very amazing orchard. For he owns a small country. For there is not enough room in that country to contain all the fruit. and he said. that produces a great deal of fruit. Many people and noblemen travel there. this man is the small that holds within it the great. in which there are fruits. For he carries in his mind thousands upon thousands of people. Later. Until due to him.how so much garbage came to be on this mountain. the waste and refuse piled up on the mountain. `All that waste came from me. There was a man standing near the mountain. And thus he is the small that contains within it the great.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN his mind had the aspect of the small containing the great. It was a wonder to me ." Another one boasted he had the quality of the small which holds the great. and despoiled the place.he carries it all in his mind.' For that man dwelled next to the mountain. 191 . when they calculate the amount of fruit that came from there. "I saw an example of the `small that holds in it the great'. for it was from him that the garbage grew to such a degree. For this was truly an example of the small which holds the great. they see that the country is not as large as the quantity of the fruit. This found favor in the eyes of the others. Then another spoke and said. etc. Thus. And they laughed at him. and continually threw upon it his garbage and filth from his eating and drinking. Thus.
There was one who said that his speech is the aspect of the small which holds the great. through leading him. many people go on leisure trips there. Thus it is an example of the small which holds the great. he could slip and fall. All the praises and requests of the people are included in his words.one with praises for the King. Many people come to him . Especially in the summer. And he is a very large man. And all that they denounce and accuse him with their slanderous speech. Thus he is the small which holds the great. and to tell these summaries to the King. and he leads the larger man. his silence is the small which holds the great. For he is small. and so on. he answers them all through his being silent alone. And I (that is.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN for it is a very beautiful orchard. But he is able to gather all their words into brief summaries. Thus. And in truth. he is the small which holds the great. This also found favor in their eyes. For he is the secretary of a great king. And clearly. Thus his speech is the small which holds the great. another with requests. For there are many accusers and gossipers who are maligning him very seriously. For if the large blind man were to walk alone. and he supports the large blind man. Another one said he is the aspect of the small which holds the great. And this small man holds him. And the one who was speaking was very small. it is impossible for the King to listen to all of them. And all the multitude of their words are alluded to within the few words of the secretary. One said that his silence was the aspect of the small which holds the great. the orchard does not have that much space to hold so many people. For there is a poor man who is blind. the hunchback who was relating all this) was 192 . Accordingly.
Thus. And the last one. who boasted of leading the large blind man. on which branch specifically it prefers to dwell.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN also there. And so the investigators searched to find such a tree. Once there was a group which was investigating: Being that every animal has a particular shaded area. For it does not generate its own light at all. under which all the animals would find a place to rest. in which it prefers to lie. Then they investigated which 193 . and it does not have anything of its own. All the animals there mingle and play together. For all the birds and all the animals are there. he is greater than all of you. For the one who said he leads the large blind man. And so for each bird. there is a particular branch. which has the aspect of blindness. and they wanted to travel to that tree. and surely it is a very great delight to be by that tree. and I understand all the import of your words. he is truly the aspect of the small which holds the great. and the moon is very large. leads the moon even though he is small. you all have an aspect of the small which holds the great. I said. that specifically within that place it prefers to rest. his intent was that he leads the moon. and desire to dwell within its shade. They discovered that there was such a tree. and on its branches all the birds would dwell. "In truth. "Here is the proof. So there is a specific shaded place for every animal. For every animal chooses for itself a particular shaded spot. One which all the animals would choose. and no animal would cause one any harm. And he (the last one who spoke). But I am completely beyond all of you. entirely. For the magnificent delight that one would have beside that tree is impossible to imagine. However. And he sustains the entire world. the aspect of the small which holds the great that I possess transcends all of you. for the world needs the moon.
for there were only a small minority among them who possessed these qualities. for it is entirely beyond place. was also there with them. only that it is a 194 . and they all went. So that everyone would be fit to go to the tree. For one said they needed to go East. and other said West.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN direction to follow in order to reach the tree. There was no concluding answer. it takes up some space. so that some would make the journey and some would stay. For not everyone is able to go to that tree. and they all agreed on one route to follow to reach the tree. I said to them. one said this way and one said that way. and asked. only one who has the qualities of the tree can go there. For that tree has no place at all. For this tree has three roots: One of them is Faith. and they fell into disagreement about it. whereas the aspect of the small which holds the great still has some connection to place. And I (the hunchback). another is Awe. Only those who have the qualities of the tree can go. everyone simultaneously came to a shared awareness. Then. Until they could not come to a conclusion about which direction to take to reach the tree. For in any case. when everyone had achieved the needed qualities. Thus they were delayed there. And the trunk of the tree is Truth. waiting while the lacking ones strived and struggled to achieve the qualities needed for the journey. determine who is worthy of going there. "I can bring you to the tree. "Why are you searching for which direction to go to reach the tree? First of all. and they were not prepared to separate from each other." Now this band of investigators were very closeknit. and the third is Poverty. Then one sage came. For not all of them were fit to go there. And from there extend the branches. Thus.
which is beyond place entirely (for this hunchback was like the connection-point between "place" and "beyond place". However.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN very small space which contains much within it. Thus. On the sixth day they were also joyful." And there was great joy and abounding gladness there. it is only that I do not use the power in my hands in this world. the aspect of the absolute end of place. Therefore. and brought them there." He continued as the others had spoken. But it is a space nevertheless. And they longed.) And now I give this to you as a gift. In truth. 195 . saying "Here I am! Look. For from this point and beyond is the aspect of "beyond place" entirely. I have come to the wedding. he appeared. he could take them out of the realm of place. Thus. that I have the uttermost quality of the "small which holds the great". beyond which there is no space at all. And I have testimony to this from the Castle of Water. and kissed them. the aspect of the small which holds the great which I possess. for he was the aspect of the "small which holds the great". For he possesed the uttermost extent of the "small which holds the great". for he carried a great weight. (This is why he appeared a hunchback. For I need that power for another matter.) So I took them. to the tree. is at the complete end of space. I have the full use of my hands. to the realm of "beyond place". saying. I have the testimony from that band of people. that you will be like me. beyond which there is not an iota of place at all. "How can we bring the beggar without hands here?" And behold. I can take you all to the tree. "You think that I am blemished in my hands? I am not blemished at all.
because of the various poisons applied to them. Each one gloried in the power of his hands. you cannot heal the Princess. "What kind of arrow can you bring back?" For there are ten types of arrows. "If so. For his receiving is giving. Therefore. For when one wants to shoot an arrow. (That is to say. However. several people sat together. When one dips the arrow in one poison. they are referred to as the "ten types of arrows"." As to which type of arrow he could retrieve. you cannot heal the Princess. I also asked him. in his taking and receiving. in that itself he gives.) So he is inevitably a great 196 .THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN "For one time. Thus there are ten poisons. and ten types of poison. it damages more severely. For he has the power in his hands. I asked him which kind of arrow he could retrieve. he can still bring it back to him. and another said he had another specific might in his hands. and when one dips it in another poison. For one boasted that he had this power: That when he shoots an arrow. each more deadly than the one before. And so each one boasted of the might in his hands. if he could only bring back the arrow before it reached its target. and that is what is meant by "ten types of arrows". Thus." Another one boasted of having this power in his hands: Everyone from whom he takes and receives. it damages thus. he can cause it to return to him. or also after? He answered. he answered." I said to him. I can retrieve it. For the arrows themselves are all the same. for you can only retrieve one type of arrow. that even after he has already shot the arrow. and I asked him. which are ten in number. he gives to him. "Even after the arrow reaches its mark. "I can retrieve such and such an arrow. he dips the tip in a certain poison. And there are ten types of poison. I was also there. One said that he had such and such might in his hands.
" One boasted of having this power in his hands.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN giver of charity. I asked him. I answered. "If so." I answered." Then everyone asked me. For you cannot come to her place at all." One boasted that he had such a power in his hands. For you can only penetrate one of the walls that surround her. "Which wisdom can you bestow with your hands?" He answered. "Which wind can you grasp with your hands?" For there are ten types of winds. That is. "What type of charity do you give (for there are ten types of charity)?" He answered that he gives tithes. "I can do what the rest of you cannot. For there are appointed ones in the world. he can block it with his hands. then you cannot heal the Princess. "Such and such a wind. I asked him. you cannot heal the Princess. and each one needs wisdom. for you can only bestow one wisdom with your hands). For you can only play one melody before her. you cannot heal the Princess. He answered. so that it will blow to the appropriate degree. "If so." 197 . Thus. And this one who spoke said that with his hands. But you can only play one of the ten melodies. that when a storm wind arises. For you can only know one pulse. the remaining nine parts that you cannot achieve (from each of the previous examples). you cannot reach her place. I asked him. For there are ten varieties of pulse (and you can only know one pulse. "Such and such a wisdom. For there are ten types of melody." I said to him. "What is your ability?" I answered. For you cannot know her pulse. "If that is so. I can achieve. and melody is what will heal her. he can bestow wisdom on them. by laying his hands on them. and adjust the force of the wind.
and fleed from him. and now she would go to another man. and she would murder him. and all the time it withered more. He called to all his dream interpreters. For there is a Castle of Water. all made of water. So he did not know what to do with her. And it is impossible to enter this castle. one inside the other. if he sent her away and she joined with another.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN For there is a story: Once there was a king who desired a princess. and they interpreted the dream according to the simple meaning. That would madden him. Until he succeeded in capturing her. for he had sought after her with such effort. until she came to hate him. all of them of water. because of the dream. They returned to him. To send her away would vex him. The King could not find a solution what to do with her. To hold her in his charge he feared to do. One time the King dreamed that she came upon him and murdered him. and it has ten walls. Also. for she would be with another. And also her love for him soured more and more. In the meantime. He awoke. Even the floor one treads on inside the castle is made of water. and tried various schemes to capture her. for another man would take her. his love for her slowly crumbled. They told him that the dream would come to pass. For one who attempted to enter would drown. being that it is made out of water. saying that she was near a Castle of Water. and the dream embedded itself in his heart. the dream of her killing him could certainly come to pass. To kill her he could not bear. And the beauty and novelty of the castle does not need to be told. The King sent servants to search for her. for it is entirely of water. There are trees bearing fruits there. For it is undoubtedly a very awesome novelty. 198 . because of the dream.
she died. remaining in a state of great weakness. and I can heal her through the ten varieties of melody. When the King saw that she was escaping into the water. And she passed through all the ten walls of the Castle of Water. Now. he decided. the King and his soldiers chased after her. she decided to run into the castle. And I can enter all ten walls. She escaped thus into the castle. and she was struck by all the ten types of arrows with the ten varieties of poison. For with each of my ten fingers. They shot at her. So the King and his soldiers went to capture her. Thus. and passed through the gates of the ten walls of water. So I heal her. And the winds are those that piled up the waters of the sea and held them upright. and having to be with him. to tell his men to shoot at her. the Princess came to this Castle. For she preferred drowning in the water over being caught by the King. And these waves which are the ten walls. the one without hands). and I can retrieve from her all the ten types of arrows. It was told to the King that she was circling the castle. they stand there at all times. Therefore. perhaps she would survive. and manage to enter the castle. for he would drown in the water.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN Now. She began circling its perimeter. And if she died. after fleeing. I can trace a specific pulse from among the ten pulses. And I know all the ten varieties of pulse through my ten fingers. Yet it is the winds that stand them upright. And I heal her (that is. Besides. When she saw them approaching. you see that I 199 . For there are gates within those walls. these ten walls of water are the waters of the sea that stood as a wall. considering the situation. For one who does not have the ten types of charity cannot enter the ten walls of the castle. and drowned in the water. And I can enter all the ten walls of water. Until she reached the innermost chamber and collapsed.
" And there was overwhelming joy and gladness there. since I have started to tell it. with the beggar without feet. what happened on the seventh day. We did not merit to hear the end of the story. "Even if I knew nothing else aside from this story. He said he would not reveal it. speedily in our days. Amen. it would also be a very great novelty.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN have this power in my hands. This story is very hard for me to tell. I must finish it. for we will not merit to hear it until the coming of the Messiah." 200 . and this is a great loss. Now I am giving it to you as a wedding gift. However. He also said.
These tzaddikim explained that before the coming of the Messiah. and that through this Song the Jewish People will be redeemed with a complete Redemption. in his book Tikkunei Zohar. Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. 201 . Tripled and Quadrupled. and all of this will occur before the coming of the Messiah. Great tzaddikim preceding Rabbi Nachman's time spoke of the Song that will be revealed in the future. there will be revealed a song that is Single. Doubled. Through the note he sent in a miraculous manner to Rabbi Israel Dov Odesser (called 'Saba Israel'). Doubled. among them Rabbi Yonaton ben Uziel (buried in Amukah) and Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai (buried in Meron).THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN WHAT IS "NA NACH NACHMA NACHMAN ME-UMAN"? 'Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman'. Rabbi Nachman revealed that his name is the Song that is Single. The Messiah himself will sing this song and redeem the Jewish People. this is the name of our holy leader. Tripled and Quadrupled.
whether spiritual or physical.This is Double. NA -. The letter itself was sent in a miraculous manner from Uman in the Ukraine. As Rabbi Israel Dov Odesser said.This is Single. and the Tzaddik spiritually descends to him to save him in all times of distress. Rabbi Nachman reveals to us that he is the Song that is Single. Through a person's reciting Rabbi Nachman's holy name in the form of the Fourfold Song. the merit of the Tzaddik protects him. Doubled. or when he is in need of help. Two Letters." 202 . Tripled and Quadrupled Song. Here.THE TALES OF RABBI NACHMAN When Rabbi Nachman sent the Petek (the Note) in a miraculous way to Rabbi Israel Ber Odesser. be it spiritual or physical. in the Petek. Tripled and Quadrupled. One Letter. he signed his name therein "Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman". NACH -. NACHMA – This is Tripled. Rabbi Nachman is the only tzaddik in the world who has ever signed his name in the form of the Single. Doubled. "Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman is effective in bringing all kinds of salvations. NACHMAN – This is Quadrupled. or to answer any request he is making. 'Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman'.
6 Quotes from Rabbi Israel about Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman
1. "Simply by reciting the name of our leader Rabbi Nachman, just as it is signed in the signature on this Petek – Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman – this eases all the troubles and sweetens all the harsh judgments, all the sins and all the falls and all of the heresy of the world. This is enough to destroy the Other Side (the Evil Inclination), to dispel all the darkness, everything, it transforms everything. This is a new power like nothing that was ever before in the world."
2. "Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman, this has the power, this opens up all the gates, all the gates of mercy, all the gates of prayer, all the gates of repentance, all of the Torah."
3. "Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman – this is the main point. This contains all of the Redemption, and all of the salvations are included in this name, for the central point of everything is dependent on Rabbi Nachman."
4. "This is effective for everyone, on both the general and individual levels. Every person should pray and say verbally: "May the merit of Rabbi Nachman protect us and all the Jewish People, the merit of Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman."
5. "Our holy leader Rabbi Nachman, this matter is an entirely new secret, yes. Rabbi Nachman revealed that his name is a Song that is Single, Doubled, Tripled and Quadrupled – Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman."
6. If one is suffering or there is some sin – immediately say Na Nach Nachma Nachman MeUman, this already transforms everything. This renews – everything, transforms – to good. Nachman MeUman – this transforms everything.
The holy Petek, where 'Na Nach..' is written
Photos of the holy tzaddik 'Saba Israel', 'Owner of the Petek'
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