This cassette focuses on Israel ben Eliezer (1700-1761), called the Baal-Shem Tov (Master of God's Name). The founder of the Hasidic movement in Judaism, he put the accent on inner renewal, the mystic offering of service, and simple joyful faith. These values are inherent in this collection of stories about Baal-Shem's life as gathered together by Martin Buber. Actor, folk singer, and composer Theodore Bikel reads these pieces with pizzazz. The Baal-Shem's wisdom, patience, faith, and fortitude are repeatedly tested by enemies and evil spirits. Yet his messages about the closeness of God prevail.