MUSSAR IN RECOVERY

A rabbi and a recovering addict combine the Jewish principles associated with Mussar and 12-step recovery techniques in this nonfiction book.

Co-author Hannah L. notes that within her family’s Jewish culture, there was an assumption that “nice Jewish boys or girls don’t do drugs.” As she notes, this misconception both intensified her own struggle with addiction and denied her the benefits that Jewish tradition can provide in helping people with an addiction and their families on the path toward recovery. Supporting Hannah’s insights with sound theological underpinnings (her teacher and co-author, Winokur, is a retired rabbi), Hannah makes the case that the Jewish spiritual tradition of Mussar offers the faithful spiritual practices and teachings that complement the 12-step recovery programs that addicts may already be familiar with. With origins stretching back to the 19th century, the Mussar tradition centers around “soul traits (middot)” that the co-authors believe constitute a “Treasure Map” to healing. Mirroring the 12-step process, the authors discuss a dozen of these spiritual traits—from truth and courage to responsibility and holiness—in chapter-long overviews. The book concludes with five distinctly Jewish concepts promoting actionable areas of practice, such as “non-judgmental curiosity” (Hitlamdut), compassion (Rachamim), and gratitude (Hakarat Hatov). The text blends Hannah’s conversational and deeply intimate writing style, which includes anecdotes from other addicts and their loved ones, with her and Winokur’s scholarly understanding of Judaism and Mussar teachings. Backed by more than 360 research endnotes, this is an arduous read that engages in occasionally esoteric spiritual philosophy across 300 pages—it is made accessible with personal vignettes, visual elements, and two glossaries (one of Mussar-related terminology and one of terms frequently used in recovery circles). Most importantly, the book is practical, including daily reminders for those working through 12-step programs, prompts for journaling, and even musical playlists.

A well-researched and personable guidebook to using the Mussar tradition in addiction recovery.