Hasidism, Cultism, and the Secular Imperative

Abstract

The article "Hasidism, Cultism, and the Secular Imperative" by Steven J. Gelberg critically examines the overlap between Hasidic Judaism and contemporary new religious movements often labeled as “cults.” Drawing from his experiences as both a former ISKCON member and a student of Hasidism, Gelberg highlights striking parallels between Hasidic spiritual intensity and the features condemned by modern secular critiques of cults—especially those emerging from within the Jewish community. The article questions whether anti-cult rhetoric serves as a covert defense of secularism against deeply immersive religious life, urging a more nuanced understanding of spiritual extremism across traditions.