Rabbi Daniel Biton Discusses Mysticism, Rare Manuscripts, and Practical Kabbalah

Rabbi Daniel Biton, head of the "Ha'Meir" institute, shared insights into the world of Jewish mysticism and practical Kabbalah in a recent interview with Yossi Abdo for the "Yitgadal V'Yitkabal" series. He showcased rare manuscripts from prominent figures like Rabbi Moses Cordovero, Rabbi Elijah David Rabinowitz-Tew-Adom, and Rabbi Joseph Caro, alongside books published by his institute over decades.

Biton detailed the origins of "Ha'Meir," which began nearly 40 years ago with the goal of making ancient Jewish texts accessible. He recounted how he discovered the potential of publishing books to bring blessings, citing a story from Rabbi Chaim Palachi's "Brachot Mo'adecha L'Chaim" and receiving affirmation from Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky and Rabbi Ovadia Yosef. The institute has since published numerous works, including "Mikraot Gedolot Ha'Meir" and "Chok L'Yisrael," focusing on clear, accessible editions.

The interview also touched upon challenging projects, such as publishing the writings of Rabbi Joseph Rozin (the Rogatchover Gaon), whose home and manuscripts were largely destroyed in a fire. Biton also discussed acquiring and publishing the works of Rabbi Elijah David Rabinowitz-Tew-Adom, noting that he omitted certain critical remarks about the Rogatchover made by Rabinowitz-Tew-Adom in his youth. He also revealed he possesses a powerful, unpublished Kabbalistic manuscript by Rabbi Chaim Vital that he fears to release.

Addressing practical Kabbalah, Biton asserted that studying it is permissible and beneficial, emphasizing the need for structured learning under qualified individuals. He dismissed claims that such study inevitably leads to negative spiritual influences. He also affirmed the continued existence of "evil eye," sorcery, and dybbukim, though he cautioned against letting these fears dominate one's life. He believes that some conditions diagnosed as mental illness today may have spiritual roots, but stressed that spiritual intervention requires expertise.

Biton shared personal anecdotes, including witnessing a candle light itself during a search for a missing child and an egg explode under mystical circumstances. He also discussed the significance of the month of Elul and the zodiac sign Virgo in relation to repentance and avoiding sin. He highlighted the vast number of differences between the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmuds, which his institute has documented in a 23-volume series aimed at fostering understanding. He also spoke about the extensive Jewish manuscript collection at the Vatican Library and a unique interpretation of a verse from the Book of Zechariah regarding Gog and Magomog.