INTERNET MEDIATED MIRACLES: THE LUBAVITCHER REBBE’S ONLINE IGROS KODESH

Abstract

This paper examines the use of the Internet by Lubavitcher Hasidim.  It focuses on the (now deceased) Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Igros Kodesh — a compilation of his writings.  Following his death in 1994 it became commonplace for Lubavitchers to consult the physical text to seek the Rebbe’s advice, blessings and ‘miracles’- a modern day form of bibliomancy. Recently it has become possible to perform this activity online.  Using data from a chat forum I analyse attitudes towards the online version and discuss my findings in relation to studies examining the relationships between online and offline religious experience using Durkheim’s categories of the sacred and profane.