R. Pinchas of Koretz, despite not being a student of the Besht, made three visits to him. [In the margins: R. Pinchas stated that he did not receive instruction from the Besht]. On his third journey, it is said, that R. Pinchas had difficulty understanding a passage in Maimonides’ Guide to the Perplexed. Upon learning that the Besht was in the nearby area, R. Pinchas decided to travel to him to gain clarity on the matter. At the time of R. Pinchas' arrival, the Besht was in a meeting with his close associates, discussing various topics. Suddenly, he announced, “We will soon have a distinguished guest, R. Pinchas,” and began discussing elevated matters. As soon as R. Pinchas entered, the Besht stated, “It is difficult to understand the verse in Psalms, ‘Within his power are the speculators of the earth.’ If God's power indeed encompasses everything, then it is pointless to contemplate and speculate on the wonders of the earth. Everything is happening under the direction of Divine Providence, rendering any speculation unnecessary. Additionally, by speculating, one may, God forbid, potentially question whether everything truly is within God's power.” The Besht, in response to his inquiry, stated, “The proper understanding is that ‘within his power’ implies ‘God's authority’. God has the power to grant permission for individuals to engage in speculation.” The Besht concluded, “It is permissible for R. Pinchas to engage in speculation,* but for my other students, it is forbidden.” The Besht subsequently provided the correct explanation for the Guide to the Perplexed.

*R. Pinchas was indeed deemed as the “investigator of the Divine”

Y.F.

Tolner Rebbe