Edward Hoffman is a licensed psychologist and has been an adjunct associate professor at Yeshiva University in New York City for more than 20 years. An award-winning author, his books include Paths to Happiness, The Wisdom of Maimonides, and The Kabbalah Reader. His books have been translated into more than a dozen languages. His newest book is Lamed Vav and the Power of Mystical Kindness: Awakening to the Presence of the 36 Hidden Messengers.

Edward discusses the Jewish mystical tradition of the Lammed Vav — the 36 hidden righteous individuals whose compassion and kindness spiritually sustain the world. Drawing from Kabbalah, folklore, Hasidic teachings, and psychology, he explores how ordinary acts of empathy, storytelling, dreams, and joy may carry profound transformative power. Hoffman also examines the influence of figures such as the Baal Shem Tov, the Zohar, and Martin Buber, suggesting that hidden spiritual wisdom often appears through humble people and everyday encounters.

00:00:00 Introduction

00:03:43 Hidden righteous souls

00:08:20 Meaning of the number 36

00:12:23 Kindness in ordinary life

00:18:39 Compassion beyond religion

00:23:21 Mysticism and the Zohar

00:27:21 The Baal Shem Tov

00:31:10 Joy, healing, and helping others

00:38:27 Midrash and sacred storytelling

00:53:31 Conclusion

(Recorded on Thursday, April 30, 2026)

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Published on May 22, 2026