Smart Jewish Studies

Category: Mussar

  • Cognitive Biases and the Mussar Trait of Savlanut (Patience)

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

    Savlanut (patience) is a critical Mussar trait, emphasizing tolerance, calm, and the ability to endure challenges without reacting impulsively. Cognitive biases can both hinder and support the practice of savlanut. Below, I analyze how the 16 major cognitive biases influence savlanut, followed by full NVC OFNR protocol-based S.M.A.R.T. goals to address these dynamics. Cognitive Biases…

  • James Hillman’s Psyche and Polycentrism in the Practice of Anavah (Humility)

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

    James Hillman’s Psyche and Polycentrism in the Practice of Anavah (Humility) James Hillman’s concept of psyche as polycentric challenges traditional, monolithic views of the self by emphasizing a dynamic interplay of multiple centers of meaning, archetypes, and influences. This perspective enriches the practice of anavah (humility) by fostering self-awareness, decentralizing ego dominance, and emphasizing the…

  • Cognitive biases that help and hinder practicing anavah with s.m.a.r.t goals

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

    Intro Cognitive biases influence how we perceive ourselves, others, and our environment. Some biases can support anavah (humility) by fostering balanced self-awareness and relational understanding, while others hinder it by distorting perceptions and reinforcing ego-driven behaviors. Below is an analysis of 16 major cognitive biases, categorized as either helpful or hindering for practicing anavah. Each…

  • Comparison of Anavah (Humility) with Hindu Dharma, Sāmānya Nīti (General Ethics), and Amanitvam (Humility)

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in , ,

    Mussar’s anavah and key Hindu concepts such as dharma, sāmānya nīti, and amanitvam intersect on their ethical, spiritual, and practical dimensions. However, their underlying metaphysical frameworks and goals reveal important differences. 1. Core Concepts Anavah (Mussar): Anavah emphasizes humility as “knowing one’s place” (makir et mekomo), balancing a recognition of one’s strengths and limitations within…

  • Comparison of Anavah (Humility) and Buddhist Anatta (Non-Self)

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in , ,

    Mussar’s anavah and Buddhism’s anatta are profound concepts addressing the relationship between the self, others, and the greater reality. While both traditions explore humility and the reduction of ego, their goals, methods, and theological underpinnings differ significantly.   1. Core Concepts Anavah (Mussar): Anatta (Buddhism):   2. Goals Anavah: Anatta:   3. Theological Underpinnings Anavah:…

  • Six Thinking hats and s.m.a.r.t goals

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

      Six Thinking Hats and Anavah (Humility) The Six Thinking Hats framework, developed by Edward de Bono, provides a structured method for approaching anavah (humility) by examining it from different perspectives: logic, emotion, creativity, caution, benefits, and process. Below is an analysis of how each “hat” can explore the light and shadow aspects of anavah…

  • Sociological analysis with s.m.a.r.t goals

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

    The sociological frameworks provide unique lenses for examining anavah (humility), its light and shadow aspects, and its practical applications within a social context. Below, each framework is explored with corresponding SMART goals based on the NVC protocol. Conflict Analysis of Anavah Conflict theory focuses on power dynamics, inequality, and the competition for resources. Humility interacts…

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) and s.m.a.r.t goals

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

    IFS Perspective on Anavah: In IFS, the Self embodies calm, clarity, and compassion, aligned with the light of anavah. Parts, however, may carry burdens that either support or obstruct humility. By addressing these parts and their burdens, we can integrate the shadow aspects into skillful practice. Light and Shadow IFS Parts Related to Anavah Full…

  • Jungian archetypes light/shadow and s.m.a.rt goals

    —

    by

    Kevin
    in ,

      Light Aspects of Anavah: Shadow Aspects of Anavah: Full NVC Protocol SMART Goals for Integrating Anavah Goal 1: Cultivate the Light Aspect of the Sage SMART Goal: Specific: Practice active listening by summarizing others’ ideas during three group discussions weekly. Goal 2: Balance the Caregiver’s Shadow SMART Goal: Specific: Decline one non-essential request weekly…