The Moment of Worldwide Renewal: Hillel Zeitlin and the Theosophical Activity in Warsaw 1917–1924

Abstract

ABSTRACT:This article examines the idiosyncratic conduct of the philosopher, journalist and mystic, Hillel Zeitlin (1871–1942). Both Zeitlin’s writings and activities are unique or even strange when viewed against the backdrop of the Jewish streets of Warsaw during those years, even when considering other “neo-Hasidic” projects. He published poem-prayers and a personal-mystical diary, founded journals, called for religious and spiritual awakening and tried to start mystical study and prayer groups. Zeitlin’s work had a messianic fervor that was lacking in the activity of other Jewish figures. Despite an expansion of scholarly interest in Zeitlin’s writings and activities, no satisfactory explanation of his behavior has yet been proposed. This article contextualizes Zeitlin’s writing and activities in light of those of various spiritual and esoteric movements that flourished in early twentieth century Poland, Russia and Germany, in particular, those of the Theosophical Societies in Warsaw. He was aware and deeply sympathetic to the various movements of spiritual awakening, and these affected his work profoundly.