The Maiden of Ludmir: A Jewish Holy Woman and Her World

This remarkable book explores the story of Hannah Rochel Verbermacher, who functioned as a rebbe or charismatic leader in the nineteenth century. Her story has long been entangled in legends, and Deutsch carefully analyzes the available written sources and oral evidence, including the memories of former residents of Ludmir to introduce us to this fascinating woman in both religious and cultural context. The book gives us wonderful insights into the role of holy women in Judaism, the role of women in Hasidism and the lives of women in nineteenth century Eastern Europe and Palestine. Deutsch takes seriously Gershom Scholem’s view that there have been no women kabbalists, analyzing it in relation to what is known about Hannah Rochel. This volume reads like a gripping detective thriller as Deutsch skillfully pursues his goal of unraveling the story of the Maiden of Ludmir and her spiritual leadership.