The Rebbe
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov
רבי נחמן מברסלב
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov (1772–1810) founded Breslov Hasidism. His teachings on joy, faith, personal prayer, and the uniqueness of every soul remain a living path for Jews around the world.
Who he was
Rebbe Nachman was born on Rosh Chodesh Nisan 5532 (April 4, 1772) in Mezhibuzh, the town of his great-grandfather, the Baal Shem Tov. He died in Uman on 18 Tishrei 5571 (October 16, 1810), during Chol HaMoed Sukkot, and was buried there the next day.
He is the only Rebbe of Breslov. After his passing, his students — above all Reb Noson — preserved his books, stories, and path rather than appointing a successor. Breslov remains a living community gathered around his teachings.
When was Rebbe Nachman born?
Rebbe Nachman was born on Rosh Chodesh Nisan 5532, corresponding to April 4, 1772, in Mezhibuzh. That town was also the home of his great-grandfather, the Baal Shem Tov.
Where is Rebbe Nachman buried?
He is buried in Uman, Ukraine. The gravesite — the Tziyun — is the place Breslov students visit for prayer, especially for Rosh Hashanah.
What he asked of a person
He taught that it is a great mitzvah to be happy, that every person must find his or her unique way to God, and that despair is never the last word. He urged his students to speak to God in their own language, every day, in hisbodedus.
His lessons weave Talmud, Midrash, and Kabbalah into a practical path: return, simplicity, song, and stubborn hope. Explore the Knowledge Center, then listen to related audiobooks and watch the video library.
Continue in the four pillars
Related audiobooks
Likutey Moharan
The collected Torah of Rebbe Nachman — the root text of Breslov learning.
Sippurei Maasiyot — The Tales
The thirteen stories, including The Lost Princess, told as a clothing for hidden Torah.
Sichot HaRan
Short conversations and counsels: joy, simplicity, and the daily work of a Jew.